Each year at this time the Fire Service attend an increased number of deliberate fires in outbuilding and sheds in Northumberland.

These fires are often set for no other reason other than to cause damage but also to cover up the theft of gardening equipment. There is often an increase in the number of reported thefts of gardening equipment from sheds and out building as the summer months draw near.

Chief Fire Officer Brian Hesler said: "Fires that are set deliberately in outbuildings and sheds can tie up a lot of our resources. These fires can also spread to dwellings and put the lives of residents at risk. If all outbuildings were secured this would not only help to prevent thefts of gardening equipment but also help to make our communities safer and reduce the risk from fire."

Ray Cunningham, Northumberland County Council's Community Warden Manager said: "Padlocks and shed alarms can be bought quite cheaply and easily from most garden centres and DIY shops and the cost is well worth it when you add up the value of the contents of your shed which could cost a lot more to replace.

"These days people pay a lot of attention to home security and with most property protected with double glazing and burglar alarms then sheds and outhouses are often the easier target for opportunist burglars.

"Community Wardens often come across unsecured outbuildings and these sometimes contain large amounts of combustible waste which can pose a serious fire risk.

"We would advise everyone to ensure their sheds are securely locked and protected and also not to store large amounts of combustible waste. Your local authority can arrange removal of bulk waste if you contact them."

If anyone has any information regarding deliberate fires they can contact Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service's Arson Task Force on 01670 534792.