FIREFIGHTERS rescued casualties from a 'burning building' as part of a training exercise at Furness General Hospital.

On Wednesday night, crews from Barrow, Walney and Ulverston along with support from duty managers took part in ‘Exercise Hospital Hotspot’ at Furness General Hospital.

The exercise simulated a fire within the boiler house, with multiple casualties unaccounted for.

A spokesman for Barrow Fire Station said crews take part in training exercises to ensure they are ready for real incidents.

He said: "We exercise in-line with our local risk to ensure we are operationally ready in the event of the real thing.

"Thanks to all involved for the amount of effort and level of enthusiasm shown throughout the duration of the exercise and a special thanks to the Furness General Fire Safety Team and wider Morecambe Bay Hospital Trust for allowing us on site to undertake this vital training."

The training comes in the same month fire crews are responding to a rise in antisocial behaviour involving deliberate fires in Barrow.

Firefighters in Barrow have been experiencing a spike in the number of deliberate fires in the last few months which they believe is linked to antisocial behaviour across the Barrow and Walney area.

Station manager, Roger Exley, is urging the public not to start a fire in the open despite the warmer weather.

He said: “With lockdown restrictions beginning to ease we know people are going to want to spend more time outdoors with their family and friends, but we would urge you not to start a fire in the open.

“Starting a fire deliberately is not just a waste of your time, or our time, but it could prevent us from attending an emergency incident as quickly as we can where we are needed most, perhaps involving your loved ones.

"We are working closely with the police, other agencies and the local community to try and prevent these fires."