Most school fires are started by young people using nearby rubbish and combustible items. Schools are four times more likely to be targeted by fire-setters than all other buildings. However, all schools can take simple, low-cost steps to improve fire safety and reduce likelihood of arson.

1 Keep rubbish bins and skips well away from outside walls

• Lock and secure bins so they can't be moved up against buildings.
• Empty bins and clean up loose rubbish so it can't be used to set fires.
• Lock away all combustibles.

2 Install/increase security lights

• The largest fires are set at night.
• Additional security lights have reduced fires and vandalism in British schools.
  

3 Watch for an increase in vandalism and graffiti

• Consider increasing night security patrols.
• Be extra vigilant with rubbish clearance.
• Increase visibility around the school buildings by cutting back vegetation to reduce fire risk and hiding places.
  

4 Take action when you see suspicious behaviour

Educate all children about the consequences of fire.

• Confront fire-setting behaviour and contact the free New Zealand Fire Service Fire Awareness Intervention Programme (FAIP) 0800 FIREINFO for further advice. This programme has a 98% success rate* in ending fire-setting behaviour and can be directed at known fire-setters or to school groups when it is not known who is lighting the fires.
• Record all information about fire-lighting incidents for possible use by FAIP/Fire Service.

5 Involve the community

• Ask neighbours and parents to keep an eye on the school and report any fires and serious vandalism to the police.

Questions?
fireinvestigation@fire.org.nz