CheckFire Report on Assessing the Impact of Arson on Key UK Sectors

Deliberate fires remain a serious concern in the UK, with nearly 1,100 arson incidents reported last year across various sectors, including hospitality, healthcare, industrial, retail, and education.

This report delves into the unique challenges faced by each sector and offers evidence-based strategies for mitigating arson risks. From the hospitality sector—accounting for nearly 400 recorded incidents—to healthcare facilities, industrial sites, retail establishments, and schools, arson poses a pervasive threat that no sector can afford to ignore.

Impact of Arson on School

Deliberate fires in educational settings can result in extensive damage, including:

• Loss of valuable educational resources;

• Disruption to students' learning; and

• Threats to the safety and lives of students and staff

Fire Risk Assessments in Schools

Fire risk assessments in schools must address:

• Potential ignition sources;

• Individuals at risk; and

• Fire safety measures, including escape routes and signage.

The identified risks determine the type and placement of fire extinguishers:

• Class A fires (common in classrooms and halls): Water extinguishers are suitable;

• Electrical fires (e.g., in IT server rooms): CO2 extinguishers are ideal;

• Lithium-ion battery fires (from devices like laptops and tablets): Specialized lithium-ion battery fire extinguishers, such as CommanderEDGE LFX, are recommended; and

• Staff must be trained on fire safety protocols and aware of procedures to identify and report suspicious activities, which is critical for preventing arson.

Protecting People, Profits, and Processes

To deter and prevent deliberate fires, schools can adopt several proactive measures:

1. Enhance Security and Access Control

• Install security systems, such as alarms, CCTV, and security lighting, to deter and detect potential arsonists;

• Use remote monitoring systems to ensure quick responses to threats during off-hours; and

• Implement strict access controls, such as ID verification and check-in/check-out procedures, to restrict entry to authorized individuals.

2. Proper Waste Management

• During periods of construction or renovation, such as summer holidays, properly manage waste to reduce opportunities for malicious activity.

3. Foster Community Engagement

• Build relationships with the local community, including businesses, neighbors, and organizations, to encourage vigilance and deter criminal activity; and

• By integrating these strategies, schools can reduce the likelihood of arson and better protect their premises, students, and staff.

Preventing Arson in Schools

Incidencies of Arson in the UK Year Ending March 2024

80 Education settings

119 Food and drink premises

123 Entertainment, culture, and sport

129 Hotels, hostels, and other guest accommodations

136 Industrial premises

146 Hospitals and medical care

196 Retail premises

HANDSAM RESOURCES

Example Fire Safety Policy

F01 Fire Safety: Points of Law

F02 Fire Safety Risk Assessment Requirements

F04 Fire Safety: Checklist

F05 Managing Arson Risk Audit

F06 Managing Fire Safety Half Termly Checklist

F12 Portable Fire Fighting Equipment F14 Fire and Smoke Dampers

The CheckFire publication, The State of Arson 2024, presents exclusive analysis of Home Office data, revealing the alarming frequency and extensive consequences of arson on public safety, essential services, and business operations.