Fire chief calls for CCTV cameras

Fire engines across Greater Manchester could be equipped with CCTV cameras after a spate of attacks.

Greater Manchester Fire Service said crews regularly face violence and anti-social behaviour.

The county's chief fire officer, Barry Dixon, is warning firefighters' lives are being put at risk by some members of the public.

At a Greater Manchester Fire Authority meeting on Thursday, he will propose cameras are installed on engines.

Hospital treatment

It is hoped that CCTV cameras would act as a deterrent against further attacks, in addition to recording evidence that could be used in court.

Greater Manchester Fire Service said that 82 incidents of violence and anti-social behaviour against its firefighters had been recorded in the first six months of this year.

The attacks have ranged from verbal abuse and spitting, to assaults which have led to firefighters needing hospital treatment.

Theft is also a growing problem. Earlier this week vital equipment was stolen from a fire engine as crews tackled a blaze in Salford.