Arson Prevention

Please note: This safety advice is offered as guidance only. If in doubt, Get out, Stay out and get the Fire and Rescue Service out!

The deliberate setting of fires can be a threat to life and property

Protect your property from arson

  • Immobilise "wheelie" type bins at least 6m away from your building. Securing them on a fixed structure or in a compound may be the answer for you
  • Store rubbish awaiting collection in a secure compound away from your property
  • Make sure you don't allow waste materials to build up inside your property
  • Hazards such as flammable liquids should be stored appropriately
  • Keep combustible materials away from boundaries where matches or cigarettes can be thrown into them
  • Make sure doors, windows, gates, walls and fences are effectively secured especially when premises are closed at night or at the week-end.

General good housekeeping tips

  • Keep escape routes clear from rubbish and rubbish containers
  • Prohibit or restrict smoking to designated areas
  • If smoking is allowed provide suitable containers for smoker's waste materials
  • Make sure there are adequate means for fighting fire in storage areas
  • Check storage and waste collection areas periodically
  • Make sure any waste burning on site is carefully controlled and supervised
  • Prohibit or restrict access to storage areas
  • Keep matches, lighters and flammable fuels locked away when no-one is in the building
  • Consider installing security lighting and/or intruder alarms
  • Make sure waste materials or vehicles do not block fire escape doors on the inside and outside of the building
  • Keep machinery well maintained and free from a build up of grease
  • Keep kitchen areas and equipment well maintained and free from grease
  • Make sure everyone who uses or visits your property knows what to do if they discover a fire

Make sure that everyone knows what action to take if there is a fire at your premises

Crimestoppers logo

If you have any information about someone deliberately starting fires call
Crimestoppers Arson Alert on
0800 555 111

To contact the prevention team about arson prevention, please email firecrimeofficers@shropshirefire.gov.uk or call 01743 260200