New report examines rising arson risks in UK retail sector
Iain Hoey
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Arson incidents increase across UK retail businesses
CheckFire Ltd has released a comprehensive report, The State of Arson 2024, focusing on the alarming rise of arson incidents affecting retail premises in the United Kingdom.
Data from the UK Home Office, as reported by CheckFire, indicates that over 190 deliberate fires were set in retail businesses in England by March 2024, underscoring the vulnerability of retail outlets, salons, and similar establishments to arson-related crimes.
These incidents have significant implications for businesses, often leading to substantial losses in stock and property, and sometimes causing permanent closures and job losses.
“Retail businesses face unique challenges when it comes to arson,” said Bruce Robins, director of CheckFire Ltd.
“The financial impact can be crippling, and the emotional toll on owners, employees, and customers cannot be underestimated.”
Insights and recommendations to prevent arson
The State of Arson 2024 report delivers targeted recommendations for reducing the risk of arson in retail environments.
It advises business owners to implement fire safety protocols, including installing fire alarms, securing premises with CCTV and access control systems, and ensuring that employees are trained to identify suspicious activities.
These precautions, alongside routine risk assessments, aim to minimise the likelihood of arson incidents and help businesses comply with the UK’s Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
Robins emphasised the importance of proactive measures in reducing risks, noting: “Our report provides critical insights into how retail premises can mitigate these risks and protect their livelihood from the catastrophic consequences of arson.”
Arson statistics and sector-specific data
The report highlights the increase in arson attacks across various sectors, with retail businesses being disproportionately affected.
This rise in incidents is backed by detailed statistics, offering a clearer picture of the challenges faced by UK retail establishments.
The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the current state of arson risks in the retail sector, enabling business owners to make informed decisions about fire safety.
Practical measures to enhance fire safety in retail
In addition to fire alarms and CCTV, the report suggests that business owners incorporate access control mechanisms and conduct regular risk assessments as part of a broader strategy to deter arson.
These safety measures, tailored specifically to the retail industry, offer business owners practical steps to fortify their premises against arson and contribute to a safer environment for employees and customers alike.
New report on rising UK arson risks: Summary
The State of Arson 2024 report, released by CheckFire Ltd, provides a data-driven overview of the increasing frequency of arson attacks in the UK retail sector, supported by Home Office data.
With over 190 incidents reported across England in the last year, the report details the financial and operational impacts of these incidents on businesses.
It includes tailored recommendations for retail owners, emphasising fire safety protocols such as fire alarms, CCTV, access controls, and staff training.
By implementing these measures, retail businesses can reduce their risk of arson and ensure compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005.
