Warmer and drier weather seems finally to have arrived and it’s great that we can all enjoy some summer sun.
But warmer, drier conditions also bring dangers to be aware of and we’ve already noticed that we’ve been called to a greater number of fires in the open and bin fires than usual over the last couple of weeks.
We want everyone to have fun but also to stay safe so here are some useful tips for the summer.
Top Tips to stay safe:
- Avoid outdoor fires, but if one starts, get well away and call 999 immediately, giving the exact location if possible, or a map reference or a conspicuous landmark or building nearby
- Never discard cigarette ends, they can spark off grass fires even if you think they’re extinguished
- Avoid disposable barbecues – they can set fire to dry vegetation and stay red-hot for hours
- If you’re having a barbecue at home, keep a bucket of water handy, only use approved barbecue lighters and don’t throw live embers in the dustbin
- Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodland or even on a window – sunlight shining through glass can ignite a fire
- Be very careful when burning garden waste, as this can get out of control very fast
- If you’re camping or caravanning, keep the tent and caravan at a safe distance from others and don’t take any fire-risks while inside or close-by
- If you’re heading to water to cool off, opt for a swimming pool rather than rivers or lakes – they remain deceptively cold under the surface and ‘cold water shock kills’
- If your road journey is unavoidable, please ensure you take plenty of water, the vehicle is fully serviced and you have a charged mobile phone – and know who to call out in case of breakdowns
Anna Davidson, Director of Prevention at HWFRS, said:
“It is vital we all take particular care not to cause fires or other incidents which could be avoided with a little planning.
“That way, we can avoid putting ourselves, the fire service or other emergency services in unnecessary danger.
“Further information on how to stay safe and avoid causing fires or other incidents is on our website at Advice | Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (hwfire.org.uk).
“We’re grateful to everyone for their support on this. Above all, stay safe!”
Further safety advice can be found at www.hwfire.org.uk, www.gov.uk/firekills or by calling the Prevention Team on 0800 032 1155.