Derelict buildings warning after call outs

Teignbridge District Council said there had been several incidents where emergency services were called out to help or deal with incidents

Children have been urged to stay out of disused buildings after "several incidents" of emergency services being called to help trapped people and extinguish fires, a council has said.

Teignbridge District Council said in recent months young people had entered buildings, on Bradley Lane, Newton Abbot, through "vulnerable parts of the buildings".

The buildings are boarded up to stop people entering and are set to be demolished with future plans for the site still being discussed.

The authority said Devon and Cornwall Police had increased patrols in the area and the council had appointed a contractor to secure the site's perimeter.

'Disorientated and trapped'

David Palethorpe, executive member for economic development, said: "We’re really concerned about reports of young people entering the buildings and putting themselves and others at risk, so we’re taking additional measures to make sure the site is secured.

"I’d urge parents to talk to their children about the dangers of entering disused buildings, and to make sure they know where their children are over the school holidays."

Scott Leaman, station commander for Newton Abbot at Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Young people may be able to get into derelict buildings through gaps in roofs and windows, thinking they can get out the same way, but if a fire was to start, getting out becomes much, much harder.

"The risk of becoming disorientated and trapped is very real and could lead to tragic consequences."