A spate of deliberate fires in Kendal town centre has prompted a joint operation between the fire service and police.
Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service said since April 2025, firefighters had been called to 19 deliberate fires.
Jamie Coward, group manager for service delivery in Westmorland and Furness at Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, said: “We have attended 19 deliberate fires in the town since April last year, 11 of which were in or near bins, so this operation was a targeted one aimed at educating young people in areas which have been identified as hotspots.”
On Saturday, firefighters from Red Watch at Kendal Fire Station were joined by local police officers to visit anti-social behaviour hotspots.
Mr Coward added: “Even seemingly small deliberate fires can easily spread and pose a risk to life and property, as well was placing an unnecessary burden on emergency services.
“We want to engage with our communities to make sure they understand the risks and deter people from dangerous and criminal behaviour.
“Working in partnership with colleagues from Cumbria police on this operation shows how seriously we take concerns like this.”
The patrol also identified issues with refuse storage at some commercial properties.
PC Ben Lawson, Community Beat Officer for Kendal town centre, added: “Saturday’s action was a concerted effort to address and discourage recent incidents of anti-social behaviour involving bins being deliberately set alight in the area.
“While out on patrol one person was arrested on suspicion of taking a moped scooter without consent, following a report of anti-social behaviour in the town.
“We remain committed to tackling anti-social behaviour throughout the year, ensuring our communities feel safe in their homes and neighbourhoods.”
A spate of deliberate fires involving bins and scrubland last year was also followed up by the watch, who attended Queen Katherine School alongside police colleagues last summer to talk to pupils about the risks associated with starting fires.
