Police warn young people of dangers in abandoned buildings

Summarised from 2 outlets · Updated 24 Oct, 06:09 · Archive

Hertfordshire Constabulary has warned young people about the risks of entering abandoned buildings, saying it can constitute burglary.

Hertfordshire Constabulary has warned young people against entering empty or abandoned buildings after reports of urban exploring across the county, particularly in Stevenage and Hertsmere.

Police say trespassers face numerous hazards including collapsing ceilings and walls, exposed electrics, and biological hazards such as asbestos. Antisocial behaviour officer Sonia Nixon said: 'This is an issue we are seeing across the county, particularly in Stevenage and with recent reports in Hertsmere too. We know that many young people see urban exploring as a bit of fun but unfortunately, many don't realise that it comes with huge risk. These sites are highly unpredictable, with the potential for serious injury in a matter of seconds.'

Beyond physical danger, the force warned of a criminal element. Buildings that appear abandoned may still be owned and in the process of being cleared out, and entering such premises is classed as burglary. Nixon urged parents and carers to ensure children understand both the dangers and that it is illegal. Anyone who witnesses trespassing or unsafe behaviour around abandoned buildings has been asked to ring 101.

How it is being reported

• Hertfordshire 'urban explorers' warned they could be guilty of 'burglary'Hertfordshire Constabulary warns young urban explorers of dangers in abandoned buildings across Stevenage and Hertsmere, saying trespassing can be burglary.Watford Observer · 24 Oct, 05:28
• Police issue warning to young people across Dacorum about dangers of urban exploringHertfordshire Constabulary has issued a warning to young people across Dacorum about the dangers of the trend of urban exploring.Hemel Gazette · 23 Oct, 12:33

In this story: Hertfordshire Constabulary · Sonia Nixon · Stevenage · Hertsmere · Dacorum

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