'It can lead to injury and anti-social behaviour' — young people warned to stay away from derelict buildings

The warning comes from the Isle of Wight Community Safety Partnership, whose key partners ­— the council, police and fire and rescue service ­— are working with owners of empty sites to ensure they are as secure as possible.

It follows a previous warning for children and young people to stay away from dangerous sites such as disused chalk pits, after one teenager fell from a four-storey height and suffered serious injuries. He was airlifted to Southampton General Hospital.

"Empty and derelict buildings can be a magnet for young people, and this can lead to injury, anti-social behaviour and further damage to themselves and the sites," said Cllr Tig Outlaw, cabinet member for community safety and public protection.

“Many of the buildings are unlit, and there is a risk of tripping or becoming impaled on railings trying to enter or exit a site."

The council has appealed for people to report any unsecured buildings or sites to its empty property officer, so appropriate action can be taken.

Howard Watts, senior officer for the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, said: “Our emergency services have to respond to all fires, and this includes those set deliberately in empty or unused properties.

"Not only does it put our crew members at risk ­— it also means while we are responding to incidents of that nature, we are not able to respond as promptly to other emergencies."

Backing the safety call, district commander for the Isle of Wight, superintendent Sarah Jackson, said: “We are working with partners to make sure that Island youngsters realise any empty building could have dangers inside, and since these buildings are very often private property, they are trespassing.

"My message to owners is to make sure your site is secured and for the public to be aware of any suspicious activity."

Anyone aware of an unsecured empty building or site are urged to contact Will Taylor, the council’s empty property officer, on 01983 821000 ext: 6935.

Anyone who sees someone acting suspiciously in their area is asked to call 101.

Active building sites are the responsibility of the health and safety executive, so in this case, go to

, or contact 020 3028 2850.