Fire service wildfires warning ahead of third summer heatwave in South Yorkshire
Temperatures are expected to soar this weekend
Firefighters across South Yorkshire are urging members of the public to be extra careful ahead of the third heatwave of the summer so far.
Temperatures forecast this weekend have prompted South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue’s fire officers to issue another plea to the public around helping to prevent any wildfires across the county.
They are asking people to stop having garden bonfires during the heatwave, refrain from taking disposable BBQs out with them and to ensure they don’t leave rubbish – especially glass bottles – lying around.
Area Manager John Billings said: “During periods of intense heat the ground becomes so dry – this means that fires are easier to start and will spread so much quicker.
“Yorkshire is in drought; wildfires are already taking hold elsewhere in Europe and we don’t want our beautiful part of the world to be next.
“So we’re asking people not take disposable BBQs out with them to parks, fields or moorland areas. Whilst we know most people are very responsible, the risk of wildfire is extremely high right now.
“Please take your litter home with you or put it in the bin. Glass bottles in particular can magnify the sun’s rays and start fires.
“And last but not least, please don’t burn rubbish in their garden over the coming days. During a heatwave these small fires can easily get out of hand.”
As well as urging people to be careful with things like BBQs and not to have garden bonfires, the service is also asking residents to be vigilant around deliberate fire-setting.
“Lots of the incidents we attend are deliberately, which is really disappointing, but unfortunately not a huge surprise to us.
“Our final ask of the public is that if they know anyone who is intentionally setting fires – which tie up our crews and can put people at serious risk – then they report it to us.”
Residents can share information on arson, anonymously, by calling 0800 169 5558.