DSFRS gives advice about preventing arson after fire in derelict building

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has given advice to prevent "deliberate fires", or arson, following a fire in a derelict building in Plymstock. 

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service (DSFRS) has given advice to businesses to prevent deliberate fires following a fire in Plymstock Dunstone on Sunday, 18 May. 

DSFRS was called to a fire in a derelict school around 6.20pm on Sunday, 18 May, and crews from Camels Head, Crownhill and Greenbank, were on scene until just gone 9pm. 

A spokesperson for DSFRS said: "On arrival, crews quickly requested a further two fire engines to attend for additional personnel and confirmed that smoke was issuing from a single storey building measuring 20 metres x 10 metres, these were mobilised from Greenbank and Crownhill.

"At 19:15 the final details were confirmed as a fire in a single storey derelict school measuring 20 metres x 10 metres, the fire was located in the central sports hall area. Crews used two breathing apparatus, one safety jet and positive pressure ventilation fans to clear the smoke."

DSFRS advice for businesses to prevent deliberate fires (arson)
The most common cause of fire in commercial and retail premises is arson. Arson is the criminal act of deliberately setting fire to a property. Most arson attacks are unplanned and opportunistic.

Find out what to do if you see suspicious activity and follow our top tips to protect your business.

Always report suspicious activity
If there have been small fires without an obvious, non-deliberate cause at your own or neighbouring premises, call the police. Call them on 101 and Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. It could be a warning of worse to come.

Vandalism and anti-social behaviour can also be linked to arson. Report such behaviour through your local neighbourhood policing team, neighbourhood watch team or through Crimestoppers.

You should also report any accumulated or abandoned refuse to your local council. Don't let it become a fuel source.

You can find out more here: Advice for businesses to prevent deliberate fires (arson) | Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service