CheckFire’s ‘The state of arson 2024’ report has highlighted what it calls the ‘alarming rate’ of deliberate fires in schools and other educational premises across the country.
According to Home Office data, 80 arson attacks were recorded in England’s schools in the year ending March 2024, resulting in one casualty and highlighting the severe risks these institutions face from intentional fires.
The report asserts that arson can have devastating consequences for schools, from the destruction of buildings and educational resources to the disruption of learning and emotional toll on students and staff.
With these risks in mind, it says it is crucial that headteachers and governing bodies implement effective fire safety measures to protect pupils, staff, and property.
“Schools are more than just buildings – they are critical to the development and safety of children. An arson attack can not only disrupt education but also have long-lasting emotional and financial effects on the entire school community,” said Bruce Robins, director of CheckFire Ltd. “Our report provides essential guidance for schools to mitigate the risk of arson and safeguard their premises.”
The report outlines the scale of arson incidents across multiple sectors, with educational settings particularly vulnerable due to the high number of students, staff, and valuable resources on-site. The state of arson 2024 also offers practical recommendations for preventing deliberate fires in schools.
The state of arson 2024 highlights the importance of fire safety measures tailored to educational institutions, including installing fire alarms, securing access points, conducting regular fire drills, and providing training for staff to recognise suspicious activity.
By implementing these measures, schools can significantly reduce the risk of arson and ensure compliance with the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, which requires a comprehensive approach to fire risk management.
The report also offers a detailed, data-driven look into the risks posed by arson across the UK and provides actionable insights for businesses to strengthen their fire safety measures.
