Westmeads recreational ground in Whitstable is under its second attack in a week after suffering a fire to its park equipment on Tuesday and Friday of last week.
But with the park suffering several fires recently, some worry the flames were started deliberately.
Both incidents are alleged to be arson attacks having been reported at similar times of the day and located in the same area.
Now residents question the safety of the park and fear they can no longer use it.
Although the incidents have been small, how much does it really affect the fires services?
Firefighter at Whitstable fire and rescue service, Tim Green, said “whilst we’re tied up with resources at this type of incident, it leaves the town less open to fire cover and there may be another incident that comes in, potentially life threatening”.
There has been an increase of 12.6% in number of police recorded criminal damage and arson offences in England and Wales from 2021 to 2023.
“Firefighters have been bombarded and attacked, having bricks thrown at the vehicle where they have actually smashed the windows and took vehicles off the run, so these arson attacks could escalate”, said Mr Green.
Concerns are now starting to be raised on whether this will increase even more next year but also possibilities of the incidents getting more dangerous.
Residents surrounding the park have concerns over whether it is no longer safe to use in case of further incidents.
One said the park is always in terrible condition even prior to the fires with it being riddled with litter and even broken equipment. Forcing parents to decide whether it is right to be sending their children there, for their own safety.
Resident, Tracy Fisher, who lives directly opposite the park, said “it’s my dog’s safety, my safety and my niece can’t go on the play park anymore”.
We now just have to hope that arson related fires are being dealt with correctly and enough education will be put out to proactively stop these attacks.