Those intending to light bonfires on the Isle of Wight are being urged to report such activity to the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (IWFRS).
Due to the recent hot weather there has been an increase in the number of instances where IWFRS have been called to fires which members of the public believe to be emergencies but, on attendance, are found to be bonfires or land clearance.
One recent example is the attendance of several fire engines to Rookley Country Park on Tuesday night, where it was feared a caravan had been engulfed in flames. Upon arrival, crews discovered it to be controlled burning on the site.
Such calls cause a drain on resources and put both the public and firefighters at risk as they respond under blue light conditions.
If you are going to have a bonfire, or any other type of controlled burning, which will be visible to passers-by, you can let Hampshire Fire Control know by calling the non-emergency number 02031 620063.
Fire Control will want to know the exact location of your fire, the times you are planning to let the fire burn and a contact number for yourself, or whoever will be responsible for the site. This will assist in avoiding mobilising crews unnecessarily.
Hints and tips for small bonfires:
• Don’t light in windy conditions
• Don’t leave it unattended. Someone should have the time to supervise it until it has burned out – if it has to be left, dampen it down, or, preferably, put it out
• Build it well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges
• Do not light near a highway so smoke interferes with traffic
• Keep a fire beater, a bucket of water or hosepipe handy just in case
• Never use flammable liquids to start the fire
• Only burn dry garden waste
• Never burn dangerous rubbish – aerosols, paint tins, bottles, batteries, tyres or foam furniture
• Prior to lighting, always check to see that no animals or children are inside
• Once lit, make sure that small children are kept well away and avoid breathing the smoke and fumes
