Two police officers have been praised for their swift action and bravery after responding to a major farm fire in Cumbria.
Police Constables Euan Stitt and Iain Parsons were patrolling north of Carlisle airport at around 2.40am on Saturday (13 October) when they came across a large-scale barn fire on a farm at Irthington.
The PCs, who both work as North Cumbria Mobile Support Group Officer, moved swiftly to wake the occupants of the farm – who were unaware of the fire – before helping to get livestock in harm’s way to safety.
Temporary Chief Superintendent, Rob O’Connor praised the officers for their actions.
He said: “The quick-thinking of the officers not only helped save the lives of numerous livestock but also ensured the occupants of the nearby farmhouse were able to get to safety.
“Had the officers not acted with such courage and professionalism, this incident could well have ended in tragedy.
“I am immensely proud that Cumbria has such exceptionally committed officers to call upon.”
Cumbria and Fire and Rescue had four appliances attend the fire, reporting three buildings well alight.
The cause of the fire is not believed to be suspicious at this time.
A sharp rise in farm fires has prompted a rural insurer to call for farmers to check their fire prevention and evacuation procedures.
NFU Mutual’s claims statistics reveal that the cost of farm fire claims rose by an alarming 26% to £44m in 2016.
The most common cause of farm fires was electrical faults, which were responsible for almost half of 2016 fire claims, according to the insurer. Arson was the next most common cause.
