An arson reduction scheme is being introduced across large areas of the capital following pilot schemes in the London Boroughs of Newham, Southwark and Tower Hamlets.
Arson incident boards – similar to the crime incident boards used by the police – have been set up to encourage people to contact Crimestoppers with information about incidents of arson. Boards were placed in 15 separate areas during the pilot period.
“Overall the arson boards have been welcomed,” said chair of the London Fire and Emergency Planning Authority, Val Shawcross. “We’ve even had suggestions on how to make the boards easier to read and have redesigned them with larger print for this next phase.
“Based on the general responses from the public and London Fire Brigade staff, the boards are raising the profile of arson in our communities and getting the message across that there is a confidential way for anyone with information about an arson attack to stop it from happening again.”
The Arson Boards read: “There has been an arson attack in your neighbourhood. If you see or suspect anyone of setting fires please call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.”
