community safety – Page 42 – The NEN

SFRS marks First World War anniversary

As people commemorate a century since Britain entered the war some basic precautions will ensure candles mark those lost without causing further tragedy.

On the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War senior Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) officers have paid their respects to those who lost their lives in the course of the devastating conflict.

The United Kingdom entered the war on Tuesday 4 August 1914 following Germany’s invasion of Belgium. Around 17 million people were killed during one of the most destructive wars ever fought.

SFRS Chief Officer Alasdair Hay said: “The devastation of the First World War touched every community and it’s right that we pause to mark a century since the beginning of this terrible episode in history.

“Many firefighters were military reservists and so they were called up by the army or the navy, and over the course of the war many others either volunteered or were conscripted into military service.

“Of course, as with their colleagues from all other walks of life, many of these men would never return home to their families.

“The commemorative events taking place around the world today are very significant to the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, and our thoughts must go to the awful impact the First World War had on everyone involved.”

As a mark of remembrance the Royal British Legion is encouraging people to turn off their lights for an hour tonight, leaving a single light or candle on for a shared moment of reflection.

Lights Out is a national initiative running from 10pm to 11pm – exactly a century since the UK’s ultimatum for Germany to leave Belgium expired.

Foreign Secretary Sir Edward Grey famously remarked: “The lamps are going out all over Europe. We shall not see them lit again in our lifetime.”

As the First World War progressed the government took steps to ensure communities at home still had the fire cover they needed, with firefighters added to the list of reserved occupations not liable to conscription.

With people throughout the country preparing to commemorate the anniversary by taking part in the Lights Out remembrance campaign, SFRS is reminding everyone to take extra care with their candles.

Assistant Chief Officer (ACO) Lewis Ramsay, director of prevention and protection and chair of the SFRS Heritage Committee, said: “Many of us will be marking the 100th anniversary of World War One tonight by taking part in the Lights Out event.

“Firefighters served throughout the war and the sad fact is many who did were among those killed or seriously injured as a result.

“Our aim as the fire and rescue service isn’t to discourage anyone from taking part in this national moment of reflection, but we do want to remind people to take some simple precautions if they are planning to light a candle.”

ACO Ramsay continued: “Candles do pose a significant fire risk so it’s vital we all use them correctly and safely.

“It’s important to think about where they are placed. They should always be away from curtains and out of the reach of pets and children.

“Most importantly, remember to extinguish your candles if you leave the room – it only takes a moment for a fire to start.

“We urge every household to have working smoke alarms and test them every week. We also provide free home fire safety visits and fit smoke alarms where required.”

More information on candle fire safety is available on the SFRS website www.firescotland.gov.uk

People can join Scotland’s fight against fire and request a free home fire safety visit by calling the SFRS freephone number 0800 0731 999, texting ‘check’ to 61611 or by contacting their local fire station.

Witness appeal as man falls from moving van

Police are appealing for witnesses after a 24-year-old man fell from a moving vehicle which then sped away from the scene. The incident took place on Raeburn Place at 5.25pm on Friday evening. Police said the vehicle, believed to be a Ford Transit van, was seen being driven erratically through Stockbridge streets after the incident.

The man who fell from the van was taken to hospital but did not suffer any serious injuries.

Two men are understood to have been in the van at the time of the incident – one, the driver, was wearing a white tee-shirt. Stockbridge was busy at the time of the incident and police are appealing for witnesses to come forward.

Det Sgt Bob Williamson said: “Our officers are working hard and making extensive inquiries to establish the full circumstances of what happened. The events described and the irresponsible actions of the van driver are obviously concerning and we would urge members of the public who may be able to identify the vehicle or its occupants to come forward immediately.”

“Anyone with information that could help the investigation should contact Police Scotland on 101 or, alternatively, phone the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Police appeal following Pier Place attack

Police are appealing for witnesses after a woman was injured during a break-in at her Newhaven home. The incident happened last Friday at around 12.15pm at an address in Pier Place.

The 19-year-old victim was in the house when she became aware of a male’s presence, and a short struggle between the pair resulted in the young woman sustaining a dislocated elbow and an injury to her face.

She managed to get away from the suspect and ran to a neighbour who contacted emergency services.

Police are now conducting local enquiries to trace the male responsible and anyone who can assist in identifying him is asked to come forward.

He is described as white, just under 6ft tall with a skinny build. He was wearing a black tracksuit with the hood up and spoke with a local accent.

Detective Sergeant Mike Leask said: “The victim sustained painful injuries to her arm and face, which required medical attention and left her incredibly shaken.

“Anyone who was in or around Pier Place on Friday afternoon and remembers seeing anything suspicious is asked to contact police immediately.”

Those with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Communities urged: make this a fire-free summer

With the school holidays upon us the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) are appealing for parents, carers and young people to Join Scotland’s Fight Against Fire.

Director of Prevention and Protection, Assistant Chief Officer (ACO) Lewis Ramsay, said: “During the summer break there is often a rise in deliberate fires. These can include refuse and wheelie bin fires, fires in stairwells, closes and derelict buildings as well as grass and countryside fires.

“With early weather predictions suggesting we could be set for a hot, dry summer, communities could be particularly affected this year. We are appealing for the community to help us reduce these incidents.”

Mr Ramsay added: “Many young people will have engaged with SFRS personnel via school visits, youth programmes and public events. We want young people to remember our message that starting fires is never harmless fun.

“Deliberate fires can overstretch local fire and rescue service resources, taking firefighters away from other incidents and putting lives at risk. Parents and carers can help too by discussing summer fire safety with young people.

“Every hour, every day, there is a house fire in Scotland. We need firefighters to be free to tackle real emergencies. Together we can work towards a fire free summer.”

The service is also urging anyone in the community who may have information about a deliberate fire, or who may be responsible for setting it, to report it straight away.

Mr Ramsay said: “Every deliberate fire has victims, costs and consequences. The core public safety and call to action message is that fire setting is an offence. Don’t Accept It, Report It.

“If you know anything about fires that have been started in your area contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. You won’t have to give your name or go to court.”

SFRS is often called to attend fires which have been started deliberately in stairwells, closes or wheelie bins and ACO Ramsay is keen to highlight the danger these pose.

He said: “Refuse left lying in the street or in a common stairwell or close present a potential target for fire setters. Make sure you don’t leave refuse or wheelie bins against any property or building.Deliberately set fires are dangerous and put people’s lives and property in danger.

“By keeping wheelie bins out of sight, stored away from the building and, if possible, behind locked gates these risks can be reduced. We would ask residents and businesses to follow these precautions to eliminate the threat of deliberate wheelie bin fires.

“SFRS wants communities to enjoy the summer and work in partnership with the fire service to help make this a fire free summer.”

There is further information about deliberate fires at the SFRS website www.firescotland.gov.uk

Last year, firefighters in Scotland attended around 14,196 fires in bins, skips, fly tipped waste, derelict buildings, dry grass and heath land. With an estimated average cost of £2,000 for attendance at such incidents, the cost to the Service and our communities is a staggering £28.4 million. Approximately 81% (12,238) of these fires were deliberate.

DO report any build-up of rubbish to your local council or community fire station. This will help ensure it can be removed and prevent fires

DO report any fly-tipping direct to your local council or to the National Dumb Dumpers Stop line on 0845 230 40 90

Appeal for witnesses following Leith assault

Police are appealing for witnesses to come forward after a man was assaulted in Leith earlier this month. They are particularly keen to speak to anyone who came to the aid of the man during the vicious attack – which took place in board daylight.

The 29-year-old victim was subjected to an unprovoked attack while walking south on the bridge crossing the Water of Leith at the north end of Great Junction Street.

He was punched and kicked by three teenagers during the incident, which took place at around 3pm on Tuesday 17 June.

It’s understood that members of the public intervened to stop the assault and Police Scotland are very keen to trace those people.

Police Constable Iona McWilliam said: “This was a terrifying and unprovoked attack on a man and enquiries are underway to identify the three men responsible.

“It took place in the middle of the afternoon and we would urge anyone who witnessed the event or who may know something that would help our investigation to come forward immediately.”

The first suspect is described as white, aged between 16 and18, of slim build, and wearing a grey hooded top and grey jogging bottoms.

The second man is also described as white, aged between 16 and 18, of slim build, wearing a grey hooded top and grey tracksuit bottoms, and he was carrying a black drawstring sports bag at the time.

The third suspect is described as white, aged between 16 and 18, and of slim build, and he was wearing a black top with a white Adidas logo on side.

Anyone with information on this incident can contact Police Scotland on 101 or, alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Police issue safety warning following Pilton road accident

Police in North Edinburgh are urging local youngsters and their parents to heed a safety warning following a recent road accident in West Pilton that has left a 15-year-old in a critical condition in hospital.

Enquiries are ongoing and police are appealing for witnesses after two males riding on a motorbike collided with a car in West Pilton Gardens at around 5.40pm last Tuesday evening (22 April).

Inspector David Happs, who is based at Drylaw Police Station, said: “The dangers in riding a high-powered motorcycle without the relevant training, experience or protective headgear are clear.

“We have charged several young people over recent months in connection with the dangerous and antisocial riding of motorbikes in the area, but a small minority of local young people continue to cause disruption to their local community.

“We are committed to tackling this antisocial and dangerous activity and officers have this week visited a number of local young people and their parents to reiterate this safety message and highlight the danger these young people are placing themselves and others in.”

Police Scotland acknowledges the strong feelings in the local community regarding the motorcycle issue and Inspector Happs is keen to reassure residents that the force is continuing efforts to identify those involved in such incidents and is urging members of the public to report any relevant information to the police.

He added: “Given the increased risk to the rider and other members of the public, the circumstances in which we will pursue a motorcycle in a police vehicle are rare. However, we have and will continue to make appropriate use of the police helicopter, other specialist and plain-clothed police resources, as well as CCTV and other evidential opportunities to identify the riders and investigate any offences committed.

“Many of the bikes involved are stolen from elsewhere in the city and I would also encourage motorcycle owners to take what reasonable steps they can to prevent their bike from being stolen. We continue to respond to calls from the public providing information on the location of hidden motorcycles, and we work with local Council teams to locate the bikes to prevent further misuse.

“There is a wide range of diversionary activities and facilities in the local area for young people and we work closely with these groups, the City of Edinburgh Council, Total Craigroyston and other agencies to develop longer term strategies to reduce the offending behaviour and danger to the local community.”

Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or, alternatively, the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Race attack on driver in Trinity

Police are seeking help to find a group of young men following a racist attack on a driver in Trinity on Friday. The assault, which happened at 5.10pm in Cargil Terrace, left the 38-year-old victim with a serious facial injury.

The victim, who is originally from Zimbabwe, was first abused by the group, who were in another vehicle, and then attacked. The men are all described as being white, late teens to mid 20s and wearing jeans and casual clothing.

Police said the man had been driving his car on Granton Road when the men began shouting racist remarks from the other vehicle.

Both vehicles then travelled in the same direction into Cargil Terrace, where the altercation ended with the victim being assaulted in the street.

Det Sgt Mike Leask said: “The victim was first subjected to verbal abuse before being attacked and sustaining serious facial injuries.

“I would like to thank the witnesses that have assisted police with our inquiries and would urge any additional members of the public who witnessed the assault to contact police immediately and help us trace those responsible. In addition, anyone with any further information relevant to this investigation is also asked to get in touch.”

Doorstep crime initiative: man in Court

One man has appeared in Court and another has been reported to the Procurator Fiscal as part of the ongoing Operation Monarda initiative to tackle the scourge of bogus workmen.

A 23 year old man has been arrested, charged and appeared in court for over 40 bogus workmen offences after targeting a number of residents in Edinburgh.

In total, 14 homeowners in the Currie, Balerno and other areas in the west of the Capital were visited and over-charged for substandard work, which was carried out on their properties.

The man was identified as part of Operation Monarda – a new partnership initiative to tackle doorstep crime across Scotland.

After being detained on Tuesday, he appeared at court the following day in connection with 44 crimes and has been remanded in custody.

Police also seized a number of the man’s assets and have applied for a six-figure sum of cash to be forfeited under Proceeds of Crime legislation.

Another man, aged 47, has also been reported to the Procurator Fiscal in relation to these offences.

Police Scotland, Trading Standards and other partner agencies are assuring the public they are committed to identifying those responsible for doorstep crime and bringing them to justice.

Chief Superintendent Mark Williams, Divisional Commander of Edinburgh City Division said:

“Doorstep crime can affect anyone within our local communities, but we are aware that in particular the over 60’s can be targeted due to a perceived vulnerability.

“Those who commit such crimes, like bogus callers and rogue traders, are extremely convincing in how they approach and interact with potential victims. Anyone can be convinced by the lies these criminals create.

“If you are aware of any suspicious activity taking place at the home of a neighbour, friend or family member then please contact police immediately.”

A spokesperson from Trading Standards Scotland said: “Doorstep crime remains the number one priority for Trading Standards services in Scotland and we are committed to working with our partners to tackle this unscrupulous crime.

“Unfortunately, doorstep crime still remains vastly under reported and we strongly encourage victims, potential victims and their families and friends to report any suspicions they have immediately.”

Please report any suspicious activity to Police on 101, or your local Trading Standards department. If the person refuses to leave your door, or you feel threatened or scared – call 999 and ask for the Police.

Girl hospitalised following Gypsy Brae fall

A ten year old girl was treated in hospital following a fall from a zip line at Gypsy Brae on Sunday night.

Firefighters from Crewe Toll, Tollcross and Newcraighall responded to reports that a 10 year old girl had fallen from a zip line at Gypsy Brae, off West Shore Road at around 9pm.

Scottish Fire and Rescue Service’s line rescue specialists lowered themselves down to reach the girl and secured her to a stretcher before lifting her to safety.

The child suffered a suspected broken arm and was attended by Scottish Ambulance Service staff before being taken to Royal Sick Children’s Hospital for treatment.

Three sought following Glenogle knifepoint robbery

Police appealing for witnesses after a 15 year old boy was robbed at knifepoint on Glenogle Road on Monday afternoon.

The incident took place around 4.45pm when the victim was walking along Glenogle Road towards Stockbridge. As he walked past Glenogle Swim Centre, he was approached by three men.

The first man presented a knife and demanded he hand over his belongings, the victim complied and handed over a quantity of money. The second suspect then lifted a pair of blue and orange Adidas trainers from the victim’s sports bag and the three men then made off towards Brandon Terrace while the victim continued on to Stockbridge.

The first suspect is white, 5ft 10in 5ft 11in, early 20s, skinny, brown shaved hair, clean shaven, black Reebok jogging bottoms, grey canvas shoes.

The second suspect is white, 5ft 9in, skinny, early 20s, black not quite shoulder length hair, acne, clean shaven, dark blue or navy Kappa tracksuit.

The third suspect is white, male, 6ft 2in, heavy build, early 20s, black neat reasonably short hair, stubble, left ear pierced without an earring, and black hoody and tracksuit bottoms.

Detective Sergeant Lynsey Thomson said: “This was an alarming incident for the victim and we are keen to trace anyone who was in the area at the time or recognises the description of the suspects.”

Anyone with information should contact Police Scotland on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.