Police in Northern Ireland have warned business owners to check their premises for firebombs after a spate of incendiary attacks.
The alert comes after Northern Ireland Secretary of State Peter Hain blamed dissident republicans for causing £25 million sterling (€37 million) worth of fire damage to shops in the last year.
Police today urged extra vigilance among business owners, staff and the general public by thoroughly searching workplaces during trading hours and particularly before closing up for the evening.
"An extra few minutes could make a difference," a spokesman for the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) said.
"It is extremely important that those involved in business carry out a thorough search of the premises prior to locking up for the evening or as in this case the weekend.
"At this time of year when shops and shopping centres are particularly busy we would urge extra vigilance."
The PSNI said incendiary devices were designed to cause widespread damage and could kill. They can be left in garments, soft furnishings, upholstery and any other items that can catch fire easily.
Anyone who finds a firebomb or any suspicious device should not touch or move it but contact police immediately, it was advised.
PA