Patterns and impacts of deliberate fires in the UK

According to a report from Public Interest Lawyers, deliberate fires continue to challenge communities across seven UK regions despite an overall decline in fire incidents.

Fire and rescue service data highlights the significant impact of arson in areas such as South Wales, County Durham and Darlington, Northern Ireland, Hereford and Worcester, Humberside, Cheshire, and Gloucestershire.

From 2019 to 2024, tens of thousands of fires were recorded as intentionally set, posing risks to lives and resources.

South Wales and County Durham highlight regional differences

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service responded to over 28,000 fires between 2019 and 2024, with 70% classified as deliberate. Areas such as Trowbridge and Splott were hotspots, and deliberate fires caused 95 injuries in the period.

County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service recorded the highest proportion of deliberate fires, with 80% of the 18,842 fires reported being intentional.

Peterlee was the most affected area, and injuries linked to these incidents have risen significantly in recent years.

Urban and rural challenges in Northern Ireland and Hereford

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service dealt with 14,833 deliberate fires, half of all fires recorded in the region.

While urban areas like Belfast faced consistent activity, rural heathlands and derelict spaces posed unique challenges. Injury rates peaked in 2019/20, with 80 cases reported.

Hereford and Worcester had the smallest number of fires among the seven regions, but hotspots like Wyre Forest still saw over 1,400 deliberate fires.

Injuries in the area totalled 58, reflecting the impact even in smaller regions.

National trends and recommendations

Nationally, a 22% drop in overall fire incidents was recorded from 2023 to 2024, but deliberate fires remain consistent.

The analysis shows deliberate fires commonly involve refuse, derelict buildings, and dry grasslands, creating significant pressure on fire services and communities.

Public Interest Lawyers have called for coordinated action to address the issue, urging government bodies, local councils, and fire services to prioritise arson prevention through stricter enforcement and public education.

UK faces challenge with deliberate fires in seven regions: Summary

Public Interest Lawyers report persistent arson issues across seven UK regions despite a drop in total fire incidents from 2019 to 2024.

Key findings include high rates of deliberate fires in South Wales and County Durham, challenges in urban and rural areas of Northern Ireland, and varying impacts in regions like Hereford, Humberside, Cheshire, and Gloucestershire.

Deliberate fires significantly affect lives and resources, prompting a call for national and local strategies to prioritise prevention and community education.