Fire service tips to beat farm arsonists

FIRE officers are urging Rotherham farmers to take steps to protect their property from the attentions of arsonists.

The fire service has said that steps can be taken to reduce the risk of being targeted.

Farmers are advised to remove hay and straw as soon as possible after harvesting and fuels, fertilisers and pesticides should be stored securely, preferably under lock and key.

Unoccupied and remote areas of farms should be checked regularly to make sure they are safe and secure.

A South Yorkshire Fire  Service spokesperson said: “The maximum sentence for arson is life in prison.

“People do get caught and do get prosecuted, so we urge people to report arsonists to the police.”

Anyone with information about people starting fires can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.