Firefighters reiterate call for people to act sensibly as hot and dry conditions continue

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service (DFRS) is calling for people to stay safe and prevent emergencies as the county continues to experience prolonged hot and dry weather.

With many people expected to spend more time outdoors to enjoy the sunshine, firefighters are reiterating their warning not to take barbecues or light campfires in open spaces, including the Peak District National Park.

Warm temperatures and low rainfall mean that not only is the Peak tinder dry but others outdoor spaces are too and a single spark could escalate in a matter of seconds.

The call comes as firefighters continue to tackle a fire on Tintwistle Moor, highlighting the increased risk posed by the extremely dry conditions across Derbyshire’s countryside.

Group Manager Dean Frith said: “The current spell of warm, dry weather has left grassland, woodland and moorland areas particularly vulnerable to fire. What might seem like a small or controlled flame can very quickly develop into a large incident, especially when combined with the weather conditions.

“We are asking everyone to think carefully about their actions and avoid lighting garden fires, using fireworks or sky lanterns, and disposing of cigarettes carelessly.

“We’d also like to remind people that barbecues are not permitted in many countryside locations and that even a discarded glass bottle can increase the risk of fire by concentrating the sun’s rays onto dry vegetation.

“These simple steps can help prevent fires that threaten wildlife, property and lives.”

Alongside fire safety, DFRS is also reminding people of the dangers of open water as many look for ways to cool down.

With some Derbyshire schools due to have an inset day tomorrow, parents, guardians and carers are being encouraged to speak to children and young people about staying safe while spending time outdoors and to remember the Float to Live message should they get into difficulty.

Group Manager Frith added: “We know that some children will be enjoying an additional day away from school, and with the warm weather continuing, many may be tempted to cool off in rivers, reservoirs, lakes or quarries.

“Open water can be extremely dangerous, even during hot weather. The water is often much colder than it appears, there may be hidden hazards beneath the surface, and strong currents can quickly overwhelm even confident swimmers.

“We would encourage parents and carers to have a conversation with children about the dangers of entering open water and to help them make safe choices while enjoying the sunshine.”

Wildfire prevention

• Never have a BBQs in open countryside/moorland. Public Space Protection Orders prohibiting their use are in place in many areas across Derbyshire.
• Discard all rubbish, including glass bottles in bins provided, or take it home!
• Do not light campfires!
• Ensure cigarettes are extinguished and discarded responsibly.
• Do not use Sky/Chinese Lanterns

What to do if you see a fire in the countryside
If you spot an uncontrolled fire in the open countryside, or you see large volumes of smoke call 999, giving as much detail about the fire’s location as possible. Do not put yourself at any risk by tackling a fire.

Water Safety

• No matter how warm it is, resist the urge to swim or jump into open water such as quarries, lakes, reservoirs, and rivers.
• Cold water shock can cause muscle cramps and breathing difficulties and quickly lead to drowning.
• Hidden debris and rocks can cause you to get trapped.
• Float to Live – if you do find yourself in difficulty in the water, float to live. If you can’t swim to safety, float on your back with your arms and legs out like a star and shout for help.
• Never enter the water to help someone else in difficulty. Call 999 immediately.

In July 2021, Thando Ndlovu drowned in the River Trent while swimming with friends near Swarkestone Bridge.

DFRS recently worked with the 15-year-old’s parents to produce a video titled ‘Thando’s Story’. The film aims to raise awareness of the dangers of jumping or swimming in any open water, something that may seem enticing during the hot weather, but can have catastrophic consequences.

You can watch ‘Thando’s Story’ here.

Garden Fire/Controlled Burns

• Avoid having a garden fire during the current dry spell.
• Fires can spread rapidly over tinder dry grass, to overhanging trees and shrubs and spread to fencing, shed and even the home.

For more information about keeping safe outdoors, visit this link.