The company, which makes Flaplock, said that this rise in interest reflects fears within the local community.
“We had a rapid surge in orders from residents in the locality – a clear sign of people’s concern and genuine fear,” said md Alison Orrells.
“Deliberate fire-setting is a destructive and distressing crime that is rarely out of the headlines. So many people are concerned about it, yet few seem to do anything about it.”
Orrells went on to state: “Instead of living in fear, vulnerable communities should be putting pressure on their local authorities or community officers to help them find an affordable solution to protect their homes. Many fire authorities are taking this on board and supplying Flaplock free of charge as part of their Home Safety Checks, though not all provide this service.”
Vulnerable groups need protecting
According to Orrells, vulnerable groups – such as the elderly, ethnic minorities or single parents – are missing out, sometimes with tragic consequences.
“The letterbox is the only part of a building that is open 24-hours a day and, sadly, many fires are started by inflammable materials or fireworks being posted through them. An inexpensive, yet extremely effective solution is to fit a lockable letterflap that would prevent this and provide instant peace of mind.”
The Association of British Insurers reports that the cost of fire damage in 2008 was GB pound 1.3 billion.
Commercial fire damage cost GB pound 865 million, school fires cost GB pound 33 million and fire damage to homes cost GB pound 408 million.
