Farmers given advice to stay safe from possible arson attacks
Farms in the Warwick district have been receiving fire safety information this week as part of an arson reduction initiative by Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Based on data collected in 2004/05, letters have been sent out to specific farms reminding occupiers to be vigilant and to take extra care, especially during the recent hot weather. As well as providing key fire safety information, the letters also include useful tips on how to assess risks and ways to reduce the risk of arson attacks. These include:
· How to store hay and straw safely
· The safe storage of fuels, agrochemicals and fertilisers
· Security issues
· Disposal of refuse
Area Risk Team Officer, Ken Probin said: “National statistics show that every year in the UK around 1,700 farm buildings and 66,000 acres of grassland are destroyed by fire. Half of these fires are started deliberately. We don’t want farms in Warwickshire to become part of these statistics, which is why we are providing occupiers with key fire safety information to help them keep their properties safe and their businesses unaffected.”