Fire chiefs have condemned an attack on firefighters in Sheffield, United Kingdom (UK). Firefighters from Central Fire Station were responding to reports of a fire on Wensley Street in Sheffield when their fire engine came under attack.
Objects including eggs and fireworks were thrown at the fire engine and crew. No firefighters were injured in the incident, which happened at around 8.30 pm on 5 November. Firefighters withdrew until police arrived, before proceeding to tackle the blaze - which turned out to be a wheelie bin fire in some woods, which had been started deliberately.
Fire chiefs condemn attack on firefighters in Sheffield
Attacks like this place the safety of our firefighters, and the people they are trying to protect, at risk"Area Manager, Andy Strelczenie at South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We are absolutely appalled that our firefighters appear to have been targeted in this way. Attacks like this place the safety of our firefighters, and the people they are trying to protect, at risk. Thankfully, this type of incident is extremely rare in South Yorkshire and it is only a tiny minority of people who would ever consider acting in such an irresponsible and dangerous way."
Andy Strelczenie adds, “However, even one attack on a firefighter is completely unacceptable – and we will work alongside the police to fully investigate any attacks and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.”
Assaults on Emergency Workers Act
If have any information about this attack please call 101, quoting police incident number 961 (5 November).
The Assaults on Emergency Workers (Offences) Act has made it an aggravating factor to attack police officers, paramedics, prison officers, and firefighters, punishable by up to 12 months in prison.