Help prevent home fires and wildfires this summer

Enjoy BBQs safely

BBQs are popular ways to enjoy the summer, but they can easily start fires if not used carefully.

 

Disposable BBQs

Due to the increased risk of wildfires, the Government and fire services have encouraged shops to restrict the sale of disposable BBQ. Many major supermarkets have already acted and removed them from their stores.

 

Disposable BBQs can stay hot for several hours after use. This increases the risk of fires, especially when left near dry grass or vegetation. This type of BBQ should never be left on the ground or placed in bins while still warm.

 

When using any BBQ:

• Keep it far away from dry grass, trees, fencing, and sheds
• Place it on a firm, level surface
• Always stay with it while it is in use
• Keep water or another appropriate means of extinguishing a fire nearby
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance

 

Check your smoke alarms

A smoke alarm often provides the first warning that a fire has started. A working smoke alarm can provide those vital extra moments needed to get out safely and call for help.

 

Please take a moment to:

• Test your alarms regularly
• Replace batteries when required
• Make sure you have alarms on every floor of your home
• Replace alarms that no longer work properly
• Check in with any older or more vulnerable people around you, and ensure their smoke alarms are working too

 

Be aware of wildfire risks

Grass, shrubs, and woodland areas can dry out quickly in warm weather. Small sources of heat can then start fires that spread rapidly across large areas.

 

We can all help prevent wildfires by:

• Extinguishing cigarettes completely wherever you are – this includes in your own home, garden, or communal outdoor spaces
• Taking all waste home when you are out in nature
• Avoiding campfires and open flames in dry open spaces
• Keeping vehicles away from dry grass where possible

 

These simple actions can make a real difference to protecting wildlife, green spaces, and nearby communities.

 

Watch out for sunlight fires

Higher temperatures and stronger sunshine can increase the risk of accidental fires in the home. Items such as mirrors, glass ornaments, bottles, crystals, glass tables, and photo frames can focus the sun's rays onto nearby surfaces. This build-up of heat can cause materials such as curtains, paper, furniture, or fabrics to catch fire.

 

To reduce this risk:

• Keep reflective and glass items away from direct sunlight
• Check areas where the sun shines into your home throughout the day

 

Bonfires burn more than just waste

Bonfires are a serious fire risk, especially during dry weather. Even a small bonfire can become dangerous if the wind carries sparks, ash, or burning debris. These can quickly start fires in grass, bushes, or nearby property. To help protect people and the environment, please do not light bonfires. Instead, use safer options such as composting, local green waste collections, or taking garden waste to your local recycling centre.

 

If you discover a fire

 

If you see a fire:

• Move to a safe location immediately, do not wait to gather belongings
• Call 999 and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service
• Provide as much information about the location as possible
• Warn others nearby if it is safe to do so
• Leave the area if the fire begins to spread

 

Do not attempt to tackle a large or fast-moving fire yourself. Fires can change direction and grow much faster than expected.

 

Working together to keep our communities safe

A little extra care can prevent a serious incident. By testing smoke alarms, using BBQs responsibly, and taking care when spending time outdoors, we can all help protect our homes, our countryside, and the people around us.

 

Stay vigilant. Stay safe. Help stop fires before they start.