FIREFIGHTERS in Greater Manchester have faced a 'substantial increase' in attacks whilst attending emergency incidents in 2017.

People are also being warned not to make hoax calls to the fire services as it occupies time of valuable resources that may be needed elsewhere and potentially putting lives at risk.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service has recorded 22 instances of attacks against firefighters so far this year compared to 16 in 2016.

In April, firefighters were pelted with bricks and fireworks as they tackled a blaze in Harwood.

At least 30 youths congregated in a wooded area off Ashdene Crescent, near Longsight Lane

They had set fire to tree branches and verbally attacked crews before throwing bricks and fireworks, forcing firefighters to leave the scene.

Fortunately, no firefighters were hurt in the attack.

Two incidents in one night last week in Greater Manchester have also highlighted the dangers faced by firefighters after malicious emergency calls.

Ata round 9.50pm on Wednesday (20) firefighters attended Westbourne Avenue in Leigh but on arrival there was no emergency and the crew was met by a group of youths, who used fireworks to attack the engine.

Once firefighters had established there was no fire and the call had been malicious they found the road had been blocked by the group using wheelie bins.

Earlier that evening, crews were attacked in Ordsall Park, Salford when they were surrounded by ten to 15 youths, three of whom became aggressive.

Missiles and fireworks were thrown at firefighters but luckily caused no injuries and didn’t damage any fire service equipment. The crew were able to make it safely back to their fire engine before leaving the incident.

Area Manager Paul Etches, GMFRS’ head of prevention, said: “During 2017 we have seen a substantial increase in attacks on firefighters whilst attending emergency incidents and protecting the public of Greater Manchester.

“The use of fireworks in these recent events is an extremely dangerous escalation and we will be working with partners to examine where these are currently being purchased.

“Premises are generally only licensed to sell fireworks between October 15 and November 10 and anyone selling outside this period are liable to prosecution.”

Beverly Hughes, deputy mayor for policing and crime, labelled the attacks unacceptable.

She said: "These attacks not only affect the firefighters mentally and physically but they can also have a really negative impact on the community.

“This type of hostile action takes up valuable time and resources that might be needed at serious incidents elsewhere – it is totally unacceptable and we will pursue anyone making those malicious and dangerous calls.”

For advice about fire safety, visit www.manchesterfire.gov.uk