With sunnier days upon us and temperatures set to hit 30c this weekend, Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has issued some crucial advice – whether you’re out in the countryside, enjoying a coastal walk or hosting a BBQ in the garden.
Preventing wildfires
During periods of dry and warm weather, there’s a greater risk of wildfires, and these incidents can escalate rapidly, destroying wildlife and natural habitats, as well as tying up our firefighters and fire engines for many hours.
- Leave barbecues at home – pack a picnic instead.
- Make sure cigarettes are out and dispose of them properly.
- Sunlight shining through glass can start a fire so take your litter home or make sure bottles and other rubbish goes in the bin.
- Don’t start campfires in the countryside.
Water safety
In sunny weather many of us head towards the coast or like to take a walk along a river. HIWFRS is urging people to think about water safety, stick to the paths, follow any local warning signs.
- Always take extra care around the water’s edge, cliff faces and open mudflats
- Do not risk tides, if you do not know the times, ensure you are aware of tide times before you visit a location
- Don’t dive or jump straight into open water, this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the warmest day
- If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don’t panic, extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effect of cold-water shock pass
- Always tell someone where you are going and when you expect to be back
At home
Where you have a mirror or any other glass object, such as an ornament, that is curved, this allows the glass to act as a lens. When the sunlight hits it, it becomes concentrated and, if the rays are bounced onto something flammable (such as curtains or soft furnishings) then a fire can start.
Any mirror or glass ornament with a curve in it should never be left on a windowsill or by a window.
BBQs
Barbecues can easily get out of control but by following our safety tips you can reduce this risk.
- Never leave barbecues unattended
- Keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies
- Set up your barbecue on level ground, away from bushes, fences, tents or other structures
- Be careful when cooking fatty foods, the dripping fat can cause the barbecue to flare up
- Make sure the coals are cool before you move the barbecue. Once cool, dispose of the ashes safely – never place them in dustbins
- If you see signs of fire or spot someone in trouble in the water always call 999
Further tips for staying safe outdoors can be found at https://www.hantsfire.gov.uk/safety/safety-outdoors/.
Issued from the Fire Service department of stating the bleedin’ obvious