Boy investigated after setting fire to his hands
PA MediaParents have been urged to talk to their children about fire safety after a young boy set fire to his hands.
The 12-year-old was seen trying to start a fire in Cockerton Park, in Darlington, but instead burned himself, Durham Police said.
He is currently under investigation for arson after the incident on 18 April.
Police said the play area had been repeatedly targeted by vandals torching the equipment and causing thousands of pounds worth of damage.
Sgt Rachel Duncan-Kelf, of Darlington Neighbourhood Police Team, said: "It goes without saying that deliberately starting fires is extremely dangerous, particularly in the warmer months when the grass is dry and fires quickly get out of control.
"We know this behaviour often starts as a result of peer pressure or boredom, but that's simply not acceptable."
The force said extra patrols were being carried out in the area.
Darlington Station manager Billy McAloon, of County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service, said: "When our firefighters are called to avoidable incidents it puts a strain on resources which can affect the availbity of crews to attend critical incidents like house fires and road traffic collisions.
"We would encourage parents and families to talk to their children about the dangers and serious consequences of setting deliberate fires."
