Over the past few
weeks many businesses remain closed as we all continue to respond to the
Coronavirus restrictions.
As a result, many of these premises are not operating in their usual way.
However, ensuring their safety is still really important.
Thames Valley Police and Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue would like to urge
business owners to consider that appropriate safety and preventative measures
are maintained while the country continues to respond to Coronavirus measures,
even if it is as simple as a quick visit to check that their commercial smoke
detection and alarm systems are still working.
We ask for business owners and local communities to join forces and help keep
our businesses and commercial premises in Oxfordshire safe.
What can business owners
do?
- Check your smoke and alarm systems are working, and any electrical appliances which are not designed to be left on, are switched off.
- Ensure all internal and external doors are shut and locked where appropriate. This will help prevent intruders and, should a fire break out, doors can act as a fire break or delay fire spread.
- Consider ways in which someone could start a fire inside or outside of your property. Take responsibility and act on any issues you identify.
- Protect your commercial property. Seek advice on security, good lighting and CCTV – these can all act as a deterrent, to anyone who may harm or damage your property.
- Farms, small holdings and isolated commercial units can also be vulnerable. Lighting around barns and outbuildings can deter the opportunist thief and the would-be arsonist.
- For more information and advice on how to protect your business, please visit the Thames Valley Police website.
What can the public do to help keep our businesses safe?
- Report accumulated or abandoned refuse to your local council. Don’t let it become a target for arson.
- Anti-social behaviour can be linked to arson. Report any anti-social behaviour by calling 101 or 999 in an emergency.
- Keep watch over commercial premises in your neighbourhood. If you see something suspicious, or a change in circumstances, report to the police.
- Contact the business owner and let them know you are willing to help.
You can find more information and advice on fire safety for businesses during the Coronavirus on the Oxfordshire County Council website.
