EMERGENCY SERVICES in Dublin were last night called to multiple acts of vandalism, including possible arson attacks.

With the country in effective lockdown, most people are adhering to new government guidelines calling for people to stay indoors and not to leave their homes-- however it seems at least some individuals in the Dublin area are instead using this time to destroy property and put more pressure on the already immensely stretched emergency services.

The Dublin Fire Brigade posted on Twitter earlier today announcing the news that in one night, firefighters were called out up to 20 times to deal with bins being set alight in the Clontarf and Killester areas.

While thankfully the damage to property was minimal, the exasperated emergency service told followers "you can help prevent this vandalism by keeping your bin out of sight".

"However, that is difficult on bin [collection] night."


Firefighters were called to a series of up to 20 bins set alight in Clontarf and Killester overnight. Fortunately damage to property from the bin fires was minimal. You can help prevent this vandalism by keeping your bin out of sight, however, that is difficult on bin night. pic.twitter.com/jEUnjIlmWl — Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) March 26, 2020

In a separate incident, firefighters from Phibsboro were called to tackle a blaze in a pub which started when the outdoor seating area was set alight.

The Brigade again posted on Twitter detailing the incident, and urged business owners to check their fire alarm systems and ensure their premises are secure during the Covid-19 shutdown.

Phibsborough firefighters were called to a fire in a pub last night. The outdoor seating area was alight.



With the #Covid19 shutdown we're asking businesses to check their fire alarm systems & make sure their premises are secure#FireSafety #COVID19Ireland @ibec_irl @isme_ie pic.twitter.com/7rTXcBelsO — Dublin Fire Brigade (@DubFireBrigade) March 26, 2020

Dublin Live reports that Gardaí have said they are treating the blaze at the pub as a criminal damage incident and that an investigation has been launched to find the individuals responsible.