10 tips for reducing the chance of arson attacks

Arson is a heinous crime and sadly is an ever-present risk for many businesses. It’s also a risk that’s often overlooked by many businesses who only think about it when it’s all too late. It’s essential that arson attacks are factored into your fire risk assessment and plans are put in place to prevent or minimise the impact of a potential arson attack.

Here is a list of a few things you can do to reduce the risk of an arson attack on your business premises:

1. Report any anti-social behaviour near your premises to the police or your neighbourhood watch team as this can often lead to arson.
2. Ensure all external and internal doors are locked and closed.
3. Always make sure your alarm system is switched on and in working order.
4. Security lighting and CCTV can be an effective deterrent against arson attacks and provide proof should one take place.
5. Be mindful of accumulated refuse and try to ensure it does not become a target for an arsonist who could use it to start a fire. If refuse has become accumulated, report it to your local authority.
6. Don’t leave anything that could be used as an accelerant unsecured.
7. Stay informed about arson attacks in the area by contacting your local fire protection team.
8. In large premises that are particularly susceptible, you might consider employing nighttime security if possible.
9. External letterboxes mounted to the wall eliminate the risk of someone posting flammable materials through the front door.
10. Be mindful that arson attacks often take place inside the premises during business hours, it’s not just an after-hours crime. Disgruntled employees, for example, have been known to start fires.

This is by no means an exhaustive list of preventative measures for arson attacks, just some simple things you can do to reduce the risk on a day-to-day basis. With a risk assessment from Walker Fire, we take arson into account and provide detailed recommendations on how to prevent attacks on your business or premises.

Call us on 0800 731 3630 or email uk@walkerfire.com to arrange a free site survey and receive a no-obligation quote for your business’s premises.