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ALthough arson tops the list of priorities for the fire service over the next three years, acetylene cylinders come a close second.

The potential dangers of these gas cylinders were clearly illustrated in November following a huge blaze at Hythe Boat Yard. When a massive blaze broke out at the boatyard where the Second World War gun ship Medusa is being restored, firefighters had to impose a 200m cordon around the site, closing nearby businesses and evacuating homes, for fear of acetylene cylinders on the site exploding.

Mr Hamm told the Daily Echo: "Acetylene is used for welding and cutting. It's very prevalent, but when it's involved in a fire it becomes very explosive. We have to evacuate an area of up to 200 metres, which can have a massive impact."

Mr Pegler added: "Over the coming years we will be visiting businesses. We will be asking them if they really need acetylene within their premises and, if they do, they should treat it like a person. They should be able to remove it from the building safely if there is a fire."