THE number of fires reported in St Helens borough fell by 14 per cent in the space of a year.

There were 1,594 blazes reported in 2019 - 265 less than there were in 1,869.

In 2017, the number of borough fires reported to Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service was 1,731.

Dozens of fires have also been reported to police in the last three years.

There were 43 blazes which police were told by firefighters last year, 37 in 2018 and 44 in 2017.

There have been five incidents reported to police in the last three years when firefighters have been attacked after being called out to jobs.

Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service area manager Gary Oakford said: “Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service has seen a reduction in fires, particularly accidental dwelling fires, in recent years.

"This is undoubtedly due to our prevention activity which was recognised as outstanding during our recent HMICFRS inspection.

"As a service, we visit people daily, carrying out up to 60,000 home fire safety checks each year, installing smoke alarms and offering vital safety advice, frequently to the most vulnerable members of our communities.

“As well as visiting people in their homes, we also have a team dedicated to arson reduction who work closely with partner agencies including Merseyside Police, local authorities and housing providers to identify and intervene with individuals who may be at risk of falling into fire-setting behaviours.

“While we have seen a reduction in fires across Merseyside, including St Helens, when compared to 2018, we cannot allow ourselves to become complacent and will continue to proactively target those most at risk of fires."

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The fire service has also urged residents to make sure their smoke alarms are in working order.

The spokesman said: "We would also like to stress the importance of the public having working smoke alarms in their homes.

"Smoke alarms can save lives but only if they are working and installed in the correct position.

"We would urge residents to have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of their home and consider installing additional alarms in rooms with sleeping areas or electrical items.

"You should test your smoke alarms every week.

“If you hear a smoke alarm sounding, it’s important that you take immediate action – a delay in alerting the emergency services to a fire can be the difference between life and death.

"If you hear a smoke alarm, either as a resident or a neighbour, take action immediately and call 999. If you suspect a fire, get out of the property and stay out.”