Officers from Scottish Fire and Rescue Service (SFRS) have reported increased incidents of fire-raising in the Hamilton South area, particularly within wooded areas around Eddlewood and Silvertonhill.

It is believed that items from local businesses and homes have been taken into the woods to be set on fire, causing damage to the environment and affecting the wildlife and creating a nuisance to the surrounding residents. It also carries a high risk of injury for those setting the fires and creates a danger of the fires spreading.

In partnership with the council’s Joint Problem Solving Unit, Local Area Housing Team and Grounds Services, SFRS Community Action Team officers are keen to engage with the local community and businesses about how they can help make their community a safer and more enjoyable place to live.

The officers will be in Eddlewood on Tuesday, 14 February, first in the car park square in Tinto View, behind the Silvertonhill Avenue shops, from 2.30 to 3.10pm, before moving to Devonhill Avenue, (in the play area car park) from 3.20 to 4pm. 

A fully-crewed fire appliance will be there, which is always popular with younger members of the community. Officers from the council will be on hand to provide advice, information and assistance with fly-tipping and antisocial behaviour, alongside the SFRS Community Action Team who will provide information on fire safety.