Warning around abandoned buildings following incident in Watford

Police are warning children and young people to keep away from abandoned buildings following an incident in Watford.

On Monday (8 June), police and the fire service were called to Clarendon Road after concerns were raised about the safety of people who had been seen on a rooftop.

Multiple resources were deployed, including an aerial ladder platform and a drone, and it was ascertained that three children were exploring. They eventually came down safely and were given strong words of advice.

Abandoned buildings can present hidden dangers such as:

PC William Liddell, from the Neighbourhood Policing Team, said: “We know urban exploring is popular and that abandoned sites can seem appealing. However, they are highly unpredictable and can pose a serious risk of injury without warning.

“The incident on Monday required significant resources, potentially diverting them from others in need, and carrying a cost to taxpayers.

“Anyone entering enclosed land or buildings without lawful authority may be committing an offence under the Vagrancy Act. Those accessing premises, including abandoned properties, with intent to cause damage or steal could face more serious offences, such as burglary.

“We urge parents and guardians to speak with children about the dangers and make clear that entering abandoned buildings is both unsafe and illegal.”

Anyone who witnesses unsafe behaviour around an abandoned building is asked to report this via our online chat at herts.police.uk/contact or by calling 101. If you believe life is in danger, call 999.