SAFETY warnings have been issued after children have been seen risking their lives breaking into disused buildings. 

The warnings have gone out from fire and police chiefs following incidents of youngsters getting into the empty buildings in Bradley Lane and putting themselves in danger.

Fires have been started at the site and youngsters have become trapped inside, needing to be rescued by firefighters.

The Teignbridge Council-owned buildings are earmarked to be demolished and plans for the site are still in discussion. 

The buildings are currently boarded up to prevent entry. 

But council bosses say over the last few months, groups of young people have entered the buildings through vulnerable points.

Following the incidents, the council and emergency services have come up with a package of measures to  protect young people from the dangers of entering the highly dangerous buildings, from falling through damaged flooring or being trapped in the building in a fire. 

Teignbridge Council has now appointed a contractor to further secure the site’s perimeter with 3m palisade fencing, and there are increased police patrols in the area. 

There will also be additional security patrols at evenings and weekends, to deter intruders from entering the site. 

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

‘We’ve given the go-ahead for perimeter fencing to be installed around the site to secure the buildings, which are in a highly dangerous state and should not be entered. We’re also working with police and community partners to increase patrols around the area. 

‘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, Newton Abbot Fire Station Commander, 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. We encourage parents to talk to their children about the dangers of entering disused buildings.’

Insp James Johnson, who heads up the neighbourhood police teams in Newton Abbot, said: ‘We are working alongside our partners to do all that we can to educate young people and keep them safe. ‘Our officers will be carrying out regular patrols in these areas to deter young people from visiting unused buildings. Individuals found in the buildings will be dispersed safely from the area and action will be taken where needed.’

He also encouraged the public to report information about people on the site by using the police website or call 999 if anyone is seen in a disused building.

He said: ‘By working together, we can make sure we keep our community safe.’