Council buildings – including schools and community facilities – are the responsibility of all of us.
While we have people and staff in charge of the buildings, we can all do our bit to ensure that they are not targeted and at risk of anti-social behaviour.
This is the time of year when schools and community buildings often close – and when they could be most at risk to damage.
It is even more relevant with the long dry periods of weather we have been experiencing – and there has already been reports of anti-social behaviour at some of our sites.
Many cases of wilful fire-raising or vandalism are carried out by people who are not connected to the Council.
The attractiveness of the building can be influenced by where they are and how they are used. To reduce the risk, it is important that measures are in place. Those responsible for the buildings are required to carry out risk assessments.
Things that these should consider include:
- Limiting easy access to waste and other materials on site
- Overgrown vegetation can be another source of fuel for fires especially in hot and dry weather
- Temporary buildings within 10 meters of the property can also act as combustible material and allow fire to spread to other areas
- Ineffective perimeter security can allow access to vulnerable points where a fire can be started
- Poor building security can allow access to internal areas
- Check security systems/CCTV
If you think a building you work in or one you may frequent or pass could become a target, please let us know. Should you require more information on specific risk concerns please contact insurance@north-ayrshire.gov.uk
