Reduce & prevent arson

Neighbours

• Try to promote good relations with neighbours, especially those who overlook your property.
• Encourage them to contact the police if they see intruders, or observe anything suspicious involving your home, and do the same for them.

• Ensure any damage to fencing is repaired promptly to deter intruders.
• Any side entry gates should be secured unless in use, preventing intruders accessing the rear of your premises.
• Avoid leaving bins or combustible items accessible, especially not placed against walls. These are a ready supply of fuel for an arsonist.
• Do not leave flammable liquids in the open, and ensure such items are locked in a shed or outbuilding unless in use.
• Sheds and garages should be well secured as they contain tools used to force entry into your home, as well as flammable liquids.

Intruder alarm / security lighting / CCTV
Consider providing the above to deter intruders and ensure they are maintained and fully operational at all appropriate times.

If using CCTV, make sure tapes are replaced regularly to ensure a high standard of picture quality. Remember, you may wish to provide video footage as evidence.

External doors

• Fit good quality external doors.
• Upgrade existing doors with good quality plywood if necessary.
• Ensure gaps are kept to a minimum.
• Five lever mortice locks are advised for external doors.

• Maintain a rigid ‘lock-up’ whenever your home is vacated.
• Close windows if no one is home, and consider window locks.

• Ensure you have adequate insurance cover for your home and contents.
• For further information on the above, please refer to your local trade directory or press.
• Fit and maintain smoke detectors in your home. For more information, please click here.
• Pre-plan a fire escape route with all family members.
• Close all doors at night to keep smoke and heat out of escape routes.
• Avoid storing items on the staircase, as they could present a hazard.
• In the event of a fire: get out, stay out, and call the fire service.

• Don’t panic as most children show a natural interest and curiosity about fire.
• Act promptly because help is only one phone call away.
• We will work with individual children at home or school.
• We do not punish children, but help them change their dangerous behaviour.

• Telephone: 01670 621 146
• Email: Andrea.Sterry@northumberland.gov.uk