A FIRE brigade and police force have carried out more than 500 joint fire investigations in the last five years.
The figures were released by Cleveland Police and Cleveland Fire brigade as senior officers from both organisations work on a new protocol to detail how they will continue to work together.
The organisations work together to establish the causes of fires, manage fire scenes and investigate suspicious blazes.
The framework is important as it ensures the safety of teams that are on scene in the aftermath of a fire and guides forensic officers on the path to take in using scientific techniques.
When Cleveland Fire Brigade has extinguished a blaze, they will make an initial assessment as to the potential causes and if they believe it to be suspicious they will ask for police attendance, and a joint investigation will begin.
Alan Brown, Head of Emergency Response, Cleveland Fire Brigade, said: “Our work with the police is of paramount importance, especially when it comes to identifying the causes of deliberate fires and getting the evidence to help prosecute those responsible. Arson is a blot on the community and will not be tolerated. We are delighted that this work continues."
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