Arson is the most common cause of business fires costing the county a "staggering" £6.5 million per year, revealed the new Fire Crime Officer for Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.
"Less than half of businesses which suffer a serious arson attack recover and most firms that do manage to continue trading, fold within a year," said Derek Taylor, a former detective, who aims to reduce arson attacks in the county.
He is holding a series of "drop in" advice centres in a bid to get the fire prevention message over to county firms.
The next one is at Cedar Court, Halesfield 17, Telford, on May 21 from 9.30am to 4.30pm when businesses can get advice on what they can do to reduce the risk of an arson attack.
There will also be useful advice on how firms can meet statutory requirements to carry out fire risk assessments at their own premises.
The fire service's Outreach vehicle which tours the county attending events will be on Halesfield during the morning as part of the education initiative which includes leaflets being distributed to local firms.
"If you would like to find out more about the risks of arson to your business or if you would like help with completing a fire risk assessment, please come down to Cedar Court on Halesfield 17 on May 21.
"A fire risk assessment does not need to be complex or take up a lot of time. It does need to identify where the risks are and make sure vulnerability to an arson attack is minimised.
"A sensible assessment of your particular risks will mean you can focus your efforts where they will have the most effect to protect your business," added Derek.
