AN ARSON fighting team of counsellors hopes news of its existence spreads like wild fire.

It is about to blitz hospitals, doctors' surgeries and chemists throughout Teesside with posters and leaflets making parents aware of an advice service on offer to young fire starters.

The group of 11, who work for Cleveland Fire Brigade, include two counsellors trained to counsel youngsters aged three to 18 of the dangers and consequences of playing with fire.

The team have talked to 338 children during the past two years - and talked 99 per cent of them out of their fascination with fire. Alan Gill, an Assistant Divisional Officer with the brigade, said: "We are certainly in the forefront in the country, because we have been so successful."

A plastic surgeon hopes the leafleting campaign set to coincide with National Fire Safety Week, this month, takes off.

Middlesbrough General Hospital burns and plastics consultant Paul Baguley said: "This will hopefully impact on the reduction not only to people's property but also reduces minor and major burns injuries and even save lives."

The free service is carried out in people's homes when counsellors can also advise on a fire escape plan. Fire brigade staff will be talking to businesses and communities about the dangers and will provide and fit smoke alarms for single parents for free through a partnership with Women's Aid and Gingerbread and for pensioners through Age Concern.

National Fire Safety Week runs up to Monday, September 17.