Dorset & Wiltshire Fire Service issues safety warning amid rising temperatures
Avoid fires and stay alert during the hot weather
As temperatures rise in Dorset and Wiltshire, the local Fire and Rescue Service urges residents to exercise caution to prevent fires and incidents during the heatwave.
Historically, the region has witnessed many devastating heath fires that have impacted woodland and wildlife, often due to negligence.
Residents and visitors are advised to adhere to the following fire safety tips:
Avoid barbecues or campfires on heath or open spaces. Such activities pose a high fire risk and are restricted in many parks, campsites, and other outdoor areas.
Properly extinguish cigarettes and avoid discarding cigarette ends on the ground or from car windows; bring litter home for disposal.
If a fire starts in the countryside, evacuate to safety and dial 999 to report it immediately. Providing precise location details using the What3Words app can assist responders.
Refrain from having bonfires at home during these risky conditions. If unavoidable, ensure a garden hose is available and avoid using petrol or accelerants.
Douse barbecue coals and fire pits with water to confirm they are cold before disposing of them.
Furthermore, Group Manager Shaun Milton highlighted the risk of cold water shock, cautioning those visiting local waterways to be aware of the hazards despite warm air temperatures.
If experiencing difficulty in the water, Milton advises individuals to resist panic, float on their back, and call for help.
In emergencies, dial 999 and request the coastguard if at the coast, or the fire service if inland, but never enter the water to attempt a rescue unaided.
Milton also recommended carrying bottled water in cars to mitigate dehydration risk in potential traffic congestion during the heat.
“The exceptional weather that is forecast for the coming days means that we all need to take care when out and about,” Milton said.