What should I do to protect phone masts on my land from 5G activists?

You may have heard these fanatical conspiracy theories that suggest the new 5G network is the cause of the coronavirus spread. This has resulted in at least 40 arson attacks on telecoms mast sites to date, with 20 attacks taking place over the Easter weekend alone. Here's a quick guide of initial simple steps for landowners to take if they have phone masts on their sites:

1. Check the location of the phone mast and ancillary apparatus, including how access is taken. Is it secure and are measures in place to keep intruders out? 

2. Are there any aggravating risk factors? I.e. any flammable material in the vicinity of the apparatus? If so, steps should be taken to de-risk this. 

3. Check in with neighbouring landowners/occupiers to make sure they have not seen any suspicious activity. 

4. Check your lease with the telecommunications operator to establish who is responsible for security. 

5. Typically operators only insure the apparatus, which wouldn't cover loss to the landowner's property from an arson attack. Check the buildings insurance cover and notify the insurer of any apparatus on the land. 

If you have any concerns about how your land may be affected, don't hesitate to get in touch.