A gang of youths smashed the windscreen of a fire engine as they attacked a crew called to a hoax fire in Co Antrim, it emerged today.
Firefighters responding to reports of a bin fire in Ballymena were attacked by youngsters throwing missiles and stones.
The attack, at derelict flats in the Dunclug estate , was today condemned by investigating officers. The crew was called to reports of youths setting fire to bins just after 9.30pm, but on arrival was stoned.
The windscreen of a fire engine was smashed, taking it out of service for a number of hours.
The Police Service of Northern Ireland, which is investigating the criminal damage, said no blaze was detected.
“Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is an essential service and therefore the life-blood of any community,” said a spokeswoman.
“It provides an invaluable service and makes a real difference to people’s lives on a daily basis.
“Attacks on any emergency service not only puts staff at serious risk but also endangers the lives of the whole community.”
The spokeswoman said the police service took such attacks extremely seriously.
“In this instance it was fortunate that no one was hurt, but the resources of the fire service have been depleted with a fire engine for such times that it can be repaired,” she continued.
“This could have serious repercussions and is potentially putting people’s lives at risk.
“People carrying out these attacks are effectively attacking the own communities, and we would call on every member of the community to assist us in bringing attacks like these to an end.