SUMMER KIDZ: Fire safety this Summer

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

With many people expected to spend more time outdoors to enjoy the Summer Holidays, 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.

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.”

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.

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.