Staffordshire County Council is pleading with local residents to do their bit to prevent wildfires and stay safe in the sun this bank holiday weekend.
With temperatures expected to soar to 28°C , the county council wants to remind people not to bring barbecues to country parks or litter because of the huge wildfire risk.
These fresh warnings come as Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service reports 241 outdoor fires in April alone, with over half of these started deliberately. According to their figures, this marks a 70% increase in outdoor fires compared to this same time last year.
A small outdoor fire can quickly get out of hand, especially in dry weather. Every year, they cause serious and lasting damage to wildlife, habitats and communities.
Earlier this month, the county council condemned “thoughtless” behaviour after a newly installed viewing platform at Brindley Heath was damaged by several barbecues and littered with glass bottles.
Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
“We want everyone to enjoy Staffordshire’s countryside safely this bank holiday weekend, but the recent warm and dry weather means the wildfire risk is currently very high.
“It only takes one disposable barbecue, discarded cigarette or glass bottle to start a fire that can devastate wildlife and damage these landscapes for years to come. We’re asking visitors to act responsibly, follow the safety advice and help us protect our country parks for everyone to enjoy.”
The local authority is also warning against open water swimming where there are signs instructing people not to. People who wish to take part in this activity are urged to do so as part of a club where there is a lifeguard present and the necessary safety precautions are in place.
Hayley added:
“Please think carefully before entering open water and always follow instructions on signs. Lakes and reservoirs can be extremely dangerous, even in warm weather, and cold water shock can happen very quickly. If people do want to take part in open water swimming, it should only be done safely in supervised settings where it is permitted, and never alone.”
To help prevent wildfires, visitors are being urged to:
- Never light open fires or use disposable barbecues in the countryside.
- Make sure cigarettes are fully extinguished and disposed of in bins.
- Take all litter home or use the bins provided.
- Avoid leaving glass bottles behind because they can start fires when in direct sunlight.
- Keep matches and lighters out of children and young people’s reach.
Those wishing to take part in open water swimming are advised to:
- Never swim in reservoirs and lakes where there are signs telling you not to
- Never swim alone
- Never drink alcohol before entering the water
- Avoid walking routes near water if you have consumed alcohol
- Not dive or jump straight into open water as it can cause fatal cold water shock
- Not panic if you find yourself unexpectedly in the water. Extend your arms and legs and float on your back until the shock passes.
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Never enter the water to try to rescue someone. Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service.
