A joint operation has been launched by the police and fire service to tackle a rise in the number of arson incidents in York.
Fires have been started across the city in recent weeks, and officers say this is endangering lives and property.
Known as Operation FireSafe, it will see increased patrols and what police describe as a “robust response” to reports of deliberate fires.
A new streamlined process will see the fire service inform the police of any deliberate fires they are called to.
They say this process has already led to a number of youths being identified. Some of these have been referred to a FireSafe programme designed to change their behaviour.
Acting Sergeant Ben Ambler, of North Yorkshire Police, said: “Fire crews have been deployed to a number of small deliberate fires over the last month, placing significant demand on their resources.
“Starting a deliberate fire is dangerous and can endanger lives and cause serious damage to property. It is also a criminal offence.”
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service Watch Manager Simon Wray added: “We hope that by working together we can highlight the dangers of playing with fire and reduce the number of deliberate fires happening within the city.”
Neighbourhood Policing Team officers will be conducting patrols of areas frequently affected by fires, and both organisations’ youth and schools engagement teams are giving talks at primary and secondary schools across the city.
Watch Manager Wray added: “If anyone is worried about a young person playing with fire they can complete a FireSafe referral on our website.
“We also offer a free online home fire safety check which will help you spot fire risks in your home and offer tips and advice on how to reduce them. Depending on your answers we may ask if we can come to your property and complete a free home fire safety visit.