Winnipeg Police Service :: UD :: Arson Prevention for Businesses

ARSON PREVENTION FOR BUSINESSES

Arson is a very serious problem, often producing devastating results. Businesses can TakeAction to reduce the threat of arson by following these suggestions:

Make Your Property Less Inviting to Arsonists

Keep the property well lighted at night.
Trim shrubs and trees to eliminate potential hiding places.
Paint the building white or use light coloured bricks so that intruders are more visible at night.
Secure all external ladders and stairways so intruders do not have access to upper floors.
Make your property as burglarproof as possible. Use good deadbolt locks on all doors and secure all windows. Install a burglar and fire alarm system. Do a perimeter check of the building at closing to ensure it is secure.
Erase graffiti and repair any minor vandalism as soon as possible. The more run-down your property appears, the greater its chance of being attacked by vandals or arsonists.

Keep Combustibles Out of Sight

Dispose of all garbage and refuse properly and get it off-site as soon as possible.
Store combustible materials, such as wood crates and pallets, away from all buildings.
Store chemicals and other flammable liquids properly, and restrict access to them by locking them in a fire-resistant cabinet when not in use.
Familiarize yourself with fire hazards inherent in common combustibles that your business may use (e.g., plastic packaging) or business processes, such as mixing of hazardous materials.

Practice Fire Safety

Install smoke alarms and automatic/tamper-proof sprinklers. Have them inspected and tested by a qualified contractor annually.
Develop a proper fire safety plan and ensure designated people are aware of their responsibilities for fire safety.
Educate employees about arson prevention and fire safety.

Remember, vigilance is the best weapon against arsonists. Report anything suspicious to police immediately by calling 204-986-6222.

For more information about arson prevention, contact the Winnipeg Police Community Relations Unit at 204-986-6322 or email them, the Winnipeg Fire Department Fire Prevention Branch at 204-986-6358 or the Winnipeg Anti-Arson Hotline at 204-986-1000.