As TV soap fans were gripped by the dramatic fire in Emmerdale last week, firefighters from West Yorkshire – where the fictional village is located – were urging people to take some simple steps to reduce the chances of becoming an arson victim.

The fictional fire devastates the heart of the village Photo: ITV.com

The episodes broadcast on 12 and 13 January saw someone set light to rubbish piled outside a building, with the fire spreading to neighbouring cottages and causing an explosion. Two characters in the soap were killed in the blaze.

Craig McIntosh, director of fire safety at West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“Wheelie bins and piles of rubbish left outside are fuel for arsonists. When they are left close to buildings there is potential for the fire to spread, which can lead to devastating damage to property and even the tragic loss of life.

“Although in Emmerdale the fire setter deliberately targets a particular home, it goes to show how quickly fire can spread from a pile of rubbish outside to the actual property.”

Members of West Yorkshire’s five district arson task forces spend much of their time educating householders and businesses about removing rubbish from outside properties, and works with local councils to help ensure removal of rubbish.

Householders are advised not to leave wheelie bins outside, except on collection days, never to leave them close to their properties, and to ensure that bulky items are removed promptly or kept in a secure location, out of sight.

Watch highlights of 13 January episode