Local businesses are being urged to “take arson prevention seriously” after recent bin fires throughout Bedford.
Firefighters were called to a number of bin fires across Bedford Borough between Wednesday, 18 June and Friday, 20.
A man was later arrested but has been released on bail pending further investigation.
Read: Man arrested in connection with bin fires across Bedford
Following this, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue has released advice for local businesses to help prevent future fires. This includes:
Fire risk assessment
- Ensure your fire risk assessment is up to date
- Make sure the risk of arson has been considered as part of your fire risk assessment
Security measures
- Ensure all doors and windows are locked when the premises are unoccupied
- Install and maintain CCTV and overall security systems.
- Restrict access to certain areas
- Consider intruder alarms or patrol services for higher-risk sites
Waste management
- Prevent the build-up of waste near exits and loading bays
- Arrange regular waste collections to minimise fuel for potential fires
End-of-day procedures
- Carry out a check of the site before locking up
- Switch off ignition sources for electrical appliances
- Secure all entry points
- Ensure skips and bins are locked and stored safely
Waste bins and skips can be a very popular target for arsonists and can cause small businesses detrimental damage. Group Commander, Mark Garrett said: “It’s reported that following a serious fire, 25% of businesses don’t re-open.”
‘The Longholm Cafe’, on the Embankment in Bedford was damaged as a result of a bin fire on the 18 June. A spokesperson for Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue said that their kitchen was “100% damaged from fire and smoke”.
Read: Popular café suffers serious damage as police investigate early morning arson attacks
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