Fire and water safety urged as UK weather improves
Iain Hoey
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Fire services warn of increased fire risks with improved UK weather
As reported by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service (NIFRS), and London Fire Brigade (LFB), the improving UK weather has prompted warnings about fire and water safety.
With rising temperatures, there is an expected increase in outdoor fires and water rescue incidents.
The NFCC advises that small outdoor fires can lead to wildfires, often started by human activities such as using barbecues and campfires in open areas, and improper disposal of cigarettes and glass.
To reduce the risk, the NFCC recommends having campfires and barbecues only in designated areas, never leaving them unattended, and ensuring they are fully extinguished with water.
They also advise against setting off sky lanterns and stress the importance of disposing of smoking materials safely.
The NIFRS emphasises the importance of not starting open fires and acting responsibly by extinguishing cigarettes and taking home litter.
They urge the public to park responsibly to ensure access for emergency services.
Water safety concerns highlighted
London Fire Brigade has attended over 30 water-related incidents this year and is concerned that these numbers may rise with the warmer weather.
Teenage boys are particularly at risk of accidental drowning, especially with the end of the exam season.
During Drowning Prevention Week, the Brigade encouraged local authorities to assess the safety of waterways and ensure life-saving equipment is available.
Assistant Commissioner for Prevention & Protection at LFB, Craig Carter, stated: “Despite the warm weather, London’s waterways are still cold enough to cause cold water shock, affecting a person’s ability to swim and increasing the risk of drowning.”
He advises against jumping into water to cool off and promotes the “float to live” technique to survive cold water shock.
The NFCC and NIFRS both provide similar water safety advice, urging people to avoid drinking alcohol before swimming, to actively supervise children near water, and to call 999 if someone is in trouble.
They also advise telling the person to float on their back and throwing them something that floats.
Outdoor safety tips
The NFCC’s Wildfire Aware campaign aims to reduce wildfire risks by educating the public on fire safety.
They advise keeping barbecues and fire pits away from flammable materials and ensuring ashes are cold before disposal.
They also recommend fitting smoke alarms and fire extinguishers on boats, caravans, and mobile homes.
The NIFRS advises the public to follow their summer safety tips, which include never lighting a candle or any flame inside or near a tent, cooking outside and away from the tent, and storing flammable liquids or gas cylinders safely.
They also stress the importance of having a fire escape plan and fitting smoke alarms in caravans and mobile homes.
London Fire Brigade is working closely with councils to manage open spaces and reduce the risk of wildfires.
They caution against using disposable barbecues in parks and on balconies due to the fire risk and urge proper disposal of smoking materials and rubbish to prevent fires.
