Parents urged to speak to children about risky social media trend sweeping Northampton
Police are urging parents and carers to speak to young people about the dangers of "urban exploring" after a rise in social media videos showing youngsters entering derelict buildings across Northampton.
Officers say they have become aware of a number of videos posted on TikTok in recent months which show young people accessing abandoned and unsafe properties before sharing the footage online.
The trend, often referred to as urban exploring or "urbex", involves visiting disused buildings and restricted locations, with participants frequently filming their adventures for social media audiences.
PCSO Scott Potter, from Northampton's Neighbourhood Policing Team, said officers were increasingly concerned about the risks involved.
He said: "We're increasingly seeing young people accessing derelict buildings, empty properties and even climbing onto rooftops, often to film content for social media.
"These sites can pose serious risks, including unstable flooring, exposed electrics, hazardous materials such as asbestos, and the danger of falling from height."
Police have warned that many of the locations featured in the videos are subject to Public Spaces Protection Orders or other restrictions, meaning those entering them could face enforcement action or prosecution, particularly if any damage is caused.
PCSO Potter said the force's primary concern was preventing serious injuries.
"Our priority is to keep young people safe, and we would urge parents and carers to speak to their children about the very real dangers involved before someone is seriously injured," he said.
The warning comes as social media platforms continue to feature videos of people exploring abandoned buildings and industrial sites, often attracting thousands of views.
Northamptonshire Police is encouraging families to discuss the risks with young people and remind them that locations which may appear exciting online can present significant dangers in reality.