AVON Fire & Rescue Service is calling on the public to remain alert after vital specialist rescue equipment has been stolen from service locations.

Hydraulic cutters and spreaders are critical life-saving tools used by firefighters at road traffic collisions and other major incidents to free people who may be trapped and seriously injured.

Stealing this equipment in this way is not only reckless and dangerous, the service says, but it also has the potential to affect the speed and effectiveness of emergency response when every second counts.

In the last six months, the fire service has been a target for multiple break-ins and attempted break-ins. This is part of a wider pattern of theft affecting Avon Fire & Rescue Service, they add.

The service is continuing to review security measures and working with partners to protect stations, vehicles and essential operational equipment, but community vigilance is now more important than ever.

Local residents are being urged to act immediately if they see suspicious activity around any fire stations, fire engines or specialist rescue equipment, especially in rural areas.

People should not confront anyone behaving suspiciously themselves however but to call 999 without delay if they witness a crime in progress. Any information that member of the public has may assist police, and should be reported via 101 as soon as possible.

Chief fire officer at Avon Fire & Rescue Service, Matt Cook, said, “We are here to protect local communities, and this equipment is carried so crews can save lives in the most serious emergencies.

Anyone who targets these tools is putting added pressure on emergency services and risking the ability of firefighters to respond with the resources they need.

“By staying vigilant and reporting suspicious behaviour, the public can help us protect equipment that is relied on when lives are at risk.”