Advice and safety tips on staying safe during the summer months, and how to prevent fires in open grassland and the countryside.
We are having great summer weather in 2009 with rising temperatures and long days. However, before you dash out to enjoy the sunshine remember that fire safety doesn't stop when you leave your home!
Each year in the UK approximately 79,000 fires are started on open grassland and throughout the countryside. The causes of these outbreaks vary though one of the main culprits is the barbeque, which presents a very real fire hazard if badly handled. Barbeques are a traditional part of the summer that should be enjoyed by everyone, so here are a few useful tips to help prevent the day turning sour!
Never attempt to accelerate or revive your barbeque by applying petrol or paraffin
Always keep a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of an emergency
Make sure you set up on a flat site away from sheds, fences or any other unsuspecting fuel sources!
Keep children and pets away from the barbeque at all times, and avoid setting up for a game of tennis, jenga or any other games near the outdoor kitchen!
Never, ever leave a barbeque unattended
It is also important to be fire aware when you are out and about enjoying the British countryside. Incorrectly discarded cigarettes are a major cause of fire out in the open, always make sure they are properly put out and never throw them out of a car window as you don't know where they'll land and what damage they'll cause. Another cause of fire in open dry land; though you may not think it, is glass bottles. When left littering the landscape they can cause a fire by reflecting the suns heat, so throw them away or take them home with you.
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