Warning issued to Jersey teenagers over dangers of derelict buildings

Teenagers in Jersey are being urged to stay away from abandoned and derelict buildings after a number of incidents over the summer left young people injured.

The island’s honorary police has written to secondary schools highlighting the risks of entering unsafe properties, including the possibility of serious injury and involvement in criminal activity.

Ben Wheaton, president of the Jersey Honorary Police Association, said the warning was intended to protect young people rather than punish those who are simply curious about exploring abandoned places.

“Although in many cases the intention may simply be to explore these locations, sometimes, encouraged by social media content, entering derelict buildings can expose young people to significant risks,” he said.

The honorary police said derelict buildings can contain a range of hazards, including unstable floors and structures, broken glass, sharp objects, exposed electrical equipment and asbestos. Young people could also encounter dead animals and hazardous waste.

Mr Wheaton said the dangers were “not theoretical”, pointing to an incident during the summer in which a young person needed first aid.

The honorary police also warned about the risk of fires being started inside abandoned properties.

“Fire and smoke can spread very quickly through an unfamiliar building and may prevent those inside from reaching an exit,” Mr Wheaton said.

While simply entering an abandoned building does not automatically constitute a criminal offence, the police said the circumstances could change if someone forced entry, caused damage, stole property or entered with the intention of committing another offence.

Starting a fire or carrying equipment intended to be used in committing an offence could also lead to criminal consequences.

Mr Wheaton said some young people may be attracted to derelict buildings because of content shared on social media, but stressed that what appears to be an interesting place to explore could contain serious and unpredictable dangers.

The honorary police is encouraging parents and carers to discuss the risks with young people and make them aware of the potential consequences of entering derelict properties.