Arsonists are putting their lives at risk by repeatedly targeting a block of derelict houses, a firefighter said today.
Crews from Basildon, Corringham and Billericay spent more than three hours tackling the blaze at Handley Green, Laindon, at around 9.15pm on Sunday.
A search of the gutted property, one of a row of houses set alight just a week earlier, was made after a neighbour reported hearing cries for help. No one was found.
Metal shutters had been smashed in and a petrol can was found at the scene.
Station officer Tony Clark said no one was injured and nearby homes were not affected.
But he urged residents to ensure children did not enter the buildings.
He said: "If someone got trapped in there we could be dealing with a death."
Published Tuesday June 1, 2004
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