Arson attacks on busy bonfire night

FIRE crews at Warrington had to deal with two arson attacks during a busy bonfire night – and also had fireworks thrown at them when they went to tackle an out-of-control bonfire in the town.
The incident was in Brickfield Park, off Orford Lane – and was one of a number of fires linked to Guy Fawkes Night celebrations.
Youths were responsible for throwing the fireworks as crews attempted to extinguish the bonfire which was causing a nuisance for nearby residents
Two houses were targeted by arsonists using petrol during the night.
At one, in St Katherine’s Way, a family of five escaped from the property after petrol was poured against the front door and ignited. They required treatment by paramedics for smoke inhalation.
In another incident, in McKee Avenue, Longford, petrol was poured through a letter box and set alight. There was extensive damage in the hallway and smoke damage throughout the house and firefighters wearing breathing apparatus had to use two hosereels to extinguish the blaze. The occupiers of the house were out at the time.
Altogether, firecrews dealt with five bonfires which were causing a nuisance.
Fire also damaged a house in Marshall Avenue, Dallam after the family had been letting off fireworks through a patio door.
The family had gone to bed when the fire, involving curtains, broke out. A smoke detector activated and fire crews were able to put out the blaze with one hosereel. A ventilation unit was used to clear smoke from the property.