Spy cameras curb attacks on firefighters

Assaults, verbal abuse and throwing missiles have dipped since the vehicles were kitted out with cameras.

South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue figures show 37 attacks for the year ending March, down 45 per cent compared with the previous 12 months.

Neil Hessell, head of technical services and special projects said: “It is very pleasing to see that our decision to introduce CCTV on fire engines is having a direct impact.

“These attacks, which place the safety of our firefighters, and the people they are trying to protect, at risk.

“Thankfully, this type of incident in South Yorkshire is extremely rare and it is only a tiny minority of people who would ever consider acting in such an irresponsible and dangerous way.

“However, even one attack on a firefighter is unacceptable. We will work alongside the police to fully investigate any attacks and ensure that the footage is used to bring those responsible to justice.”

The CCTV footage can be used to help identify suspects and as evidence in criminal prosecutions.

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