Fire and Emergency crews were called to Christchurch Men’s Prison this morning after a prisoner set fire in his cell.

The fire was reported to emergency services at 11.18AM.

When the first appliance arrived at the scene, they immediately called for back up.

However, the fire was already out by the time fire crews investigated further and other crews were stood down.

Christchurch Men’s Prison Director Joanne Harrex confirmed to Chris Lynch Media that “staff were alerted to a small fire that had been started in a prisoner’s cell.

“Staff responded immediately, and extinguished the fire.

“Staff then removed the man from his cell and moved him to the Intervention and Support Unit (ISU).

“The prisoner will face internal misconduct charges.

 “There was no risk to the man’s safety and no threat to the wider security of the prison.

 “Safety is our top priority and staff respond immediately when smoke is detected. While the fire was already extinguished, as per our normal procedures, Fire and Emergency NZ were called.”