Fire Risk Assessments Lessen the Likelihood of Arson in Schools and Colleges

One of the key areas of a fire risk assessment for schools in Manchester, Bolton and Westhoughton is to focus on the risk of arson which unfortunately is a common problem in the Northwest of England. These destructive acts of setting fire to educational institutions have caused significant damage, disrupted academic schedules, and posed threats to the safety students, teaching staff and the wider community.

 It is reported that an estimated 90,000 UK school children have their education disrupted in some way due to a school fire and the National Union of Teachers (NUT) estimates that school fires cost around £100 million a year. 

In 2023, four teenagers were charged with arson at Highfield Priory School in Preston. On the 23 August 2023, the BBC published an article highlighting the frequency of school arson attacks.

According to the article, more than 100 fires, had to be dealt with by fire services in the Northwest, many of them because of arson. Shockingly the timeframe of these fires was confined to the summer holidays in 2023. Arson attacks on schools, colleges, and nurseries have not been limited to urban areas. Even educational institutions situated in smaller towns and rural locations have experienced such incidents, highlighting the widespread nature of the problem.

The detrimental consequences of these attacks go beyond physical damage. They can disrupt learning environments, traumatize students, and affect the morale of both staff and the community. Authorities, educational institutions, and local communities have been actively working to prevent and address such incidents through increased security measures, community engagement, and awareness campaigns.

Combating and managing the threat of arson attacks is the responsibility of each school, including governors, headteachers, premises managers and the Local Education Authority.  An estimated 75% of school fires result from malicious acts of vandalism, so it is vital to manage risks to protect staff, pupils, visitors, and premises. A fire risk assessment for Bolton and Greater Manchester schools, colleges and nurseries can help mitigate risk of arson. In a fire risk assessment for schools, it is important to address the potential risk of arson to ensure the safety of students, staff, and property. Here are 10 key points that we will always review which will help lessen the risk of arson in a school setting, it is by no means a comprehensive list and each school will have site specific recommendations:

1. Secure Entry Points: Ensure that all entry points to the school premises, including windows and doors, are properly secured, and monitored. Install effective locking mechanisms to prevent unauthorised access.

2. Adequate Lighting: Maintain proper exterior lighting around the school building and outdoor areas. Well-lit surroundings can deter potential arsonists by making them more visible and less likely to attempt an act of arson.

3. Fire Alarm and Detection Systems: Install and regularly maintain a reliable fire alarm system throughout the school premises. This includes smoke detectors, heat detectors, and manual call points. Ensure that these systems are functioning properly and regularly tested.

 4. CCTV Surveillance: Implement a comprehensive closed-circuit television (CCTV) surveillance system to monitor various areas of the school premises. Strategically place cameras in areas vulnerable to arson risks, such as storage rooms, utility areas, or isolated sections of the school.

 5. Storage of Flammable Materials: Clearly define and enforce policies regarding the storage and handling of flammable materials within the school. Make sure that flammable substances are stored securely in designated areas, away from potential ignition sources.

 6. Fire Safety Training: Conduct regular fire safety training programs for both staff and students. Educate them on the potential risks of arson and how to identify suspicious activities or behaviors. Encourage a culture of vigilance and reporting any concerns to appropriate authorities.

 7. Emergency Response Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency response plan that includes protocols specific to arson incidents. Clearly outline the steps to be taken by staff in case of an arson threat or actual fire, including evacuation procedures, assembly points, and communication channels to report any suspicious activities.

 8. Collaboration with Authorities: Establish a strong working relationship with local fire departments and law enforcement agencies. Conduct regular joint drills and exercises to enhance coordination and familiarize responders with the school layout.

 9. Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect the school premises to identify and rectify potential fire hazards or vulnerabilities. Document any findings and track progress on addressing identified issues.

 10. Community Awareness: Engage with the school community, parents, and guardians to raise awareness about the importance of fire safety and the hazards of arson. Encourage open communication and prompt reporting of any suspicious activities.

 By addressing these factors, the school and nursery fire risk assessment can help mitigate the risk of arson and enhance the overall fire safety of the school environment. It is essential to approach the assessment process diligently and involve relevant stakeholders to ensure the effectiveness of the implemented measures.