Police are reminding youngsters and their parents about the dangers of entering derelict sites and abandoned buildings.
Officers have been receiving reports every day of young people going into unsafe buildings throughout the area, putting themselves and others at risk. There are concerns that at some point, someone could be seriously hurt or worse.
Neighbourhood Team Leader Sergeant Ed Thomas explained: “Breaking into abandoned buildings is highly dangerous. Many are unstable with unsafe floors, broken glass and exposed electrical wiring - as well as entrapment hazards. There is the risk of exposure to asbestos as well as bird droppings and other faeces. The health risks from exposure may not be seen now but could in the future.
“We urge parents to please think about what their children are doing in their free time and, if they believe they are involved in this activity, to discuss the dangers with them. Please remember, although trespass is deemed a civil matter, burglary and other offences are criminal and will be dealt with accordingly.”
Police are aware there is a trend on social media for so-called ‘urban exploration’ often referred to as UE, urbex or roof and tunnel hacking. However, the behaviour being reported to police and partner agencies is vandalism.
Recent incidents include two reports in Paignton on Thursday evening (4 June) of youths breaking into derelict buildings opposite Paignton Railway Station and the Oldway Mansion complex.
In Brixham a group of youths broke into a derelict care home site. Police received two calls, including one from a youth who reported that his friend had fallen through a skylight on the site. Police and two large fire appliances were sent to the site and a group of youths were seen to run away.
A broken skylight was found and a full search was conducted of the buildings by fire officers but nobody was found.
Sgt Ed Thomas added: “This type of behaviour put police officers and especially fire officers at considerable risk and wastes emergency service time that could be needed elsewhere.
“Enquiries have given us a number of names of those possibly involved, including people from elsewhere in Torbay and as far as Exeter. We will be making follow up enquiries with those concerned and their families.”
If you think someone is accessing an abandoned building near you, please contact Torbay Council Problems with land and property - Torbay Council. Where possible the owners of property should also be alerted.
For any urgent issues where a crime is ongoing or life is at risk please contact Devon & Cornwall Police on 999 or you can report non urgent incidents via 101 or the Force website Home | Devon & Cornwall Police
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