SPRINKLER systems are to be installed in all new schools built in Darlington.
The borough council is keen to adopt the policy after hearing about the safety benefits of such systems from its insurers.
Research from Zurich Municipal, the largest insurer of schools, shows that 90 per cent of school building blazes are a result of arson attacks.
The majority of fires at schools also occur out of hours, but there has been a growing number of blazes during school time.
The Alderman Leach, Harrowgate Hill and Skerne Park primary schools will have sprinklers fitted, as will the Haughton education village.
There are no plans to include them in the £3m Middleton St George voluntary aided primary school, although the council is now in talks with the Church.
The policy is due to be approved when cabinet members meet on Tuesday.
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