A FIRE fighting initiative to tackle arson calls has been hailed a huge success.

Burnley's Fire Reduction Team goes into areas with a team of officers to speak to people living near affected premises to see how fires can be prevented in the future.

Patrols of arson 'hot spots' were also introduced after nuisance fires rose by nearly 40 per cent over the last 12 months.

The team also work alongside the Fire Awareness Child Education (FACE) scheme, which helps youngsters face the implications of playing with fire.

The aim of the scheme is for youngsters to get to know firefighters personally so when a fire engine is called to an incident the children see the officers as real people with real families who may be affected by their actions.

In addition, the firefighters also get involved with and are aiming to become part of communities.

A young firefighters scheme has also been launched at Burnley Fire Station for boys and girls aged 12 to 14. Currently, 10 are enrolled and are half-way through the educational programme, which lasts 12 weeks.

The young firefighters are similar to the fire cadet groups in Bacup and Haslingden.

As a reward, for their hard work they get their own uniforms and small fire kit.

Once the fire reduction team gets a call to a problem area the team visits and checks immediate problems by speaking with neighbours and residents.

They ask the council to remove rubbish from rear yards and alleyways to get rid of fuel and they also ensure properties are secure.

The Prince's Trust is also involved with the project, helping to reinforce fire safety messages and help fit smoke alarms.

Any parent who is concerned about their child's behaviour in relation to fire can contact 01772 862545 or 01282 429452.