YOUNGSTERS who light fires on Dartford Heath are being warned that their actions could cost lives. The message comes from firefighters after crews dealt with five blazes on the heath in as many days.

On Sunday, half an acre of grassland was destroyed and children are believed to be responsible. Firemen made two trips to the heath last Wednesday and others last Thursday and Friday.

Leading firefighter, Ian Hampson, said: "While we are putting out grass fires, someone could be dying in a road traffic accident or house fire. Sometimes we have to spend all afternoon up on the heath to make sure the fire is totally out."

Meanwhile, vandals have set fire to two life belts and their housing causing £700 damage at Singleton Lakes in South Ashford.

Police are anxious to catch the arsonists and have appealed for witnesses to the incident that happened between Tuesday and Thursday last week.

Police spokesperson Rosy Alexander said: "These life belts are around the lake to save lives. It is very worrying that irresponsible persons have destroyed this safety equipment."