Fire Service Warns Of Approaching Arson Season

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The Fire Service is warning schools that they are entering 'arson season' and should be taking steps to improve their fire safety.

Fire Service statistics show that the number of fires at schools almost double in the weeks around 5 November Guy Fawkes Day. This reflects children's heightened awareness of, and access to, matches, lighters and incendiaries.

Fire Investigation and Arson Reduction National Manager, Peter Wilding says "In general, schools are four times more likely to be targeted by fire-setters than other buildings and sprinklers are the best way to limit the amount of fire damage. However, all schools can take simple, low-cost steps to improve fire safety and reduce likelihood of arson."

He is urging school principals to make sure all rubbish and recycling bins and skips are placed well away from outside walls and secured so they can't be moved. Loose rubbish should also be cleared up and all combustibles safely locked away. All outside bins should be emptied daily, especially before a weekend.

If possible schools are also advised to install or improve their security lighting as the largest fires are set at night.

"We also recommend that all principals take action when staff see children lighting fires or when small fires are lit in or around the school. This fire setting behaviour is dangerous and the Fire Service has a very successful intervention programme available that schools can call on."

One of the early signs of an imminent arson attack is an increase in vandalism or graffiti.

"If anyone in or around a school notices people hanging around or spray painting on or near a school they should be extra vigilant and watch out for fires. Any fires should be reported to the Fire Service and serious vandalism should be referred to the police," said Mr Wilding.

Note: In the past five years the Fire Service has been called to over 450 arsons at schools. That is an average of seven arsons a month which rises to 10 a month in October, November and December

ENDS

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