A hard-hitting film about dealing with acid attacks made by Leicestershire Police will be used by forces across the country.

The film gives officers advice on how to respond to an acid attack and comes after a number of high profile cases in the media over recent weeks.

The 20-minute film features a man from Leicester whose girlfriend poured 96 per cent sulphuric acid on him as he slept.

Daniel Rotaiu suffered 33 per cent burns to his body and was blinded in both eyes as a result of the attack. His attacker, Katie Leong, was sentenced to life imprisonment for attempted murder.

The film has been endorsed by the National Police Chiefs’ Council and is now being circulated to all forces around the country.

It includes details of the effects of an acid attack on a victim, describes the initial actions first responders should take and advises officers on safety precautions to keep officers safe. Daniel also appears in the film, advising first responders to protect themselves by wearing gloves and not to touch the victim directly.

Peter Ward, head of the learning and development team said: “”What happened to Daniel was shocking and distressing and it was humbling that he wanted to support us in making this film to protect our own officers from the sorts of injuries he had. We have a duty to keep our own officers and staff safe.

“Incidents of this type are increasing, which means our officers are at growing risk of suffering burns and injuries as they help victims of these attacks.”

Superintendent Rich Ward said: “There is very little information currently available to help officers who find themselves having to deal with an acid attack in a way that provides immediate medical care for the victim, secures vital evidence but also ensure that the officers remain safe themselves.

“The film will prove to be invaluable for our own officers and we’ve very pleased that the NPCC wants us to share it with colleagues in other forces who face equally difficult situations."

Acid attacks in the news

More and more people are falling victim to acid attacks, as the number of incidents in the capital has soared in recent months.

Last week, on Thursday, July 13, five people were doused with acid in just 90 minutes across London. A 16-year-old boy has since been charged with 15 offences including grievous bodily harm and possession of an item to discharge a noxious substance.

On July 4, a pregnant woman in East London was doused with acid over her baby bump. The impact on the baby is not yet known.

A paramedic was also the victim of an attack on July 16, when responding to a call in Tottenham. She was flagged down by men on the pavement, who then threw acid in her face when she pulled over to help them.