THE Fire Service has appealed for an end to attacks on crews from young people in the Downpatrick area.
Gerry Lennon, Downpatrick District Commander, was speaking after a number of missiles were thrown at Fire Service appliances responding to anti-social behaviour in the Killough Road area of the town.
A number of stolen bins were placed across the road and set alight during the disturbance last Tuesday evening.
“We would appeal to young people in the area not to threaten or attack firefighters responding to emergency calls,” said Mr Lennon.
“Firefighters are very much part of the local community, working tirelessly for the community to save lives and whose job is dangerous enough without this type of extra threat. These attacks can have very serious consequences and can impact upon our ability to respond to other emergencies in the local area.
“We continue to work closely with the community, elected representatives, residents groups, young people and local schools in the area on this issue. These attacks and lawless acts are not only socially unacceptable but they are also to the detriment of the whole community if the emergency services are hindered in any way when responding to emergency calls.
“One attack on our firefighters is one too many — it is not just an attack on our firefighters but is an attack on the whole local community.”
The appeal was also echoed by the PSNI, who said they had received several reports of anti-social behaviour during the same incident.
Inspector Darren Hardy said: “Police received a number of reports of groups of young people placing bins across the road and setting fire to them. A number of missiles were also thrown at Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service appliances who attended. There were no reports of any damage being caused during the incident.
“Officers remained in the area and continued to monitor the situation throughout the night.
“Those involved in throwing missiles at emergency vehicles need to be aware of the dangers their actions can cause. Any damage caused that results in a vehicle being removed from service for repair will diminish the capability of the emergency services to respond to calls. This could potentially endanger the lives of those in the community who require their assistance.”
Inspector Hardy said police were aware of the impact that anti-social behaviour could have on the quality of life for local residents and were committed to working together to provide a solution.
“We would also ask parents to be aware of where their kids are gathering as many come from other neighbourhoods and are getting involved in anti-social behaviour, causing distress to local residents. Parents are asked to ensure their children are not involved in anti-social behaviour.
“We encourage you to report any and all incidents of anti-social behaviour in your community. The more we know, the more we can do to support people and take positive action. You can contact us on the non-emergency number 101.”