A fire which is started deliberately often develops far faster than a naturally starting fire, due to the prevalent use of accelerants. In the aftermath, a business could be left with no premises, no stock and no records. Unfortunately, an arson attack often results in the company struggling or going out of business afterwards; no insurance payment will help if all your customers have gone elsewhere in the meantime.
An arson attack is never totally preventable but there are steps that can be taken to protect your premises and thus reduce the threat and associated impact afterwards.
WHICH PREMISES ARE MOST AT RISK?
Whilst no business should be complacent there are certain types of premises which are easier targets to the potential arsonist:
- Industrial premises and factories which are usually unoccupied at night and weekends – a fire can go undetected leaving it to spread throughout a building, causing maximum damage.
- Healthcare premises, recreational, leisure or cultural activities centres all seem to be prime targets, according to statistics.
- Schools, retail centres, shops and pubs all frequently suffer arson attacks.
- All of the above are far more vulnerable if they are located in socially deprived areas.
PREVENTION MEASURES
An anti-arson strategy should be part of the company’s normal security arrangements.
- All employees working at your premises should be vigilant in their everyday roles:
Reporting suspicious behaviour.
Keeping the premises secure from unauthorised access.
Particular caution should be taken by those who are the last to leave the premises and every building should be checked before being locked up.
There should always be a designated person responsible for locking up.
- Employees who leave your employ should hand over any keys at the point of departure.
- Passcodes should be changed regularly.
- All entry points should be secured, both internal and external to the premises – including windows which should be fitted with locks.
- Ensure good levels of lighting at night time.
- Make sure that it is difficult to get behind the premises. Remove any objects which can be used as cover.
- Perimeter CCTV is a good deterrent to any potential arson attack.
- Check your fire protection system – smoke detectors, fire doors, fire extinguishers and sprinkler systems should all be checked and maintained regularly
- Potentially flammable materials should be kept locked up in a secure unit.
- Waste bins should be stored away from the building and in a secure area, either chained or fenced so that they cannot be moved nearer to the building.
- Letterboxes are also a vulnerable point – A metal mailbox should be fitted behind the letterbox in order to contain any burning material which could be pushed through.
A good fire detection system will ensure that any signs of fire, whether from arson attack or accidentally or electrically started, should be noticed and dealt with before any substantial damage can be caused.
An arson attack will certainly increase future insurance premiums, lose significant business revenue and possibly decrease the value of your property so it is definitely worth ensuring that all members of staff are well trained in your fire safety and prevention methods. This, coupled with everyone remaining vigilant at all times, will significantly cut down the risk of an attack.
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