Fiermen and Rangers need help preventing countryside fires

Countryside care needed during heatwave

With Staffordshire experiencing a period of seasonal hot weather, emergency planners are issuing advice to people using popular public areas such as Cannock Chase, Cannock Forest and other public access land at this time.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service are urging everyone to take extra care and to take simple precautions when visiting the countryside during the heatwave.

Stuart Smith, Director of Safer Communities at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue said: "We want you to carry on enjoying the countryside, but to do it safely.

"Make sure that cigarettes and matches are not carelessly dropped on the ground or thrown out of car windows. Do not light any open fires and make sure that camping stoves are used on a solid surface, well away from any dry grass and never leave them unattended. Also, make sure you put all bottles in the bin, or take them home with you."

John Wakefield, the Staffordshire County Council's Cabinet Member with responsibility for Cannock Chase, said: "Our Ranger Service is now on full alert because of the dangers of heathland fires. We want people to be able to go on visiting and enjoying the Chase, but I would ask them to take special care not to start fires. Please do not smoke or light fires of any kind, including barbecues, on the heathland or in the woodlands. And please remember that visitors with mobile phones can be very helpful by reporting any fires promptly to the emergency services."

If you are thinking of having a barbecue on your own land, consider the following:

Prevent fire hazards by keeping the barbecuing area free of paper, napkins, leaves, wooden products and furniture, dry vegetation and other combustible substances
Before disposing of charcoal ash, ensure that it is thoroughly extinguished - live coals an hot embers can still start fires
Never allow children to use or play around a barbecue
Watch what you wear - be careful with loose clothing and your hair
Use long handled barbecue tongs and brushes to put extra distance between yourself and the heat of the barbecue
Barbecues take some time to get going - you can't be in too much of a rush - there are barbecue starter fluids to assist, but do not use petrol or similar substances.
Be aware that charcoal barbecue briquettes give off carbon monoxide and they should be used in a well ventilated area.

As we start the long summer holidays, Stuart Smith urged parents to be aware of where their children are. He said: "Too often I have seen careless actions and pranks by children turn into a serious fire. Explain to them the dangers of playing with fire and make sure you know where they are. Parents and other adults have a key role to play with safe use of fire in campfires, barbecues and care with cigarettes and the generation of sparks in this hot weather."

Page Last Modified: 30/01/2007 16:03:35

Back to top