CHESHIRE Fire and Rescue Service is urging Ellesmere Port residents to play their part in preventing wheelie bin fires in the town.

The service is working successfully with a range of partners, including local community safety wardens and the police, to tackle the problem but firefighters across Cheshire are still regularly called to put out fires which have been lit in bins.

Colin Heyes, the service’s arson reduction manager, said: “We would encourage householders to play their part by taking extra care. Where possible, try to store wheelie bins in a secured area away from property and fences.

“It is also a good idea to put your bin out on the morning of collection, rather than the night before.

“Wheelie bin fires can be extremely dangerous if they take hold, often putting the lives of the public and firefighters at considerable risk.

“These fires also take up a lot of valuable time and resources. We would therefore urge anyone with information about this sort of behaviour to report it by calling Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.”

For further safety information, visit www.cheshirefire.gov.uk.