Swindon Borough Council warns of fire risks in parks amid drought
Safety precautions urged to protect green spaces
With recent hot, dry weather leaving parks in Swindon vulnerable to fires, Swindon Borough Council urges visitors to exercise caution and adhere to safety guidelines to protect local green spaces.
As drought conditions affect much of England, including Swindon, the council highlights the risk posed by bonfires, disposable barbecues, and even discarded cigarettes in these conditions, which can ignite and spread rapidly.
Photos taken at Mouldon Hill Country Park and Coate Water exemplify the danger posed by such activities. One shows a bonfire in dry grass, while another captures a disposable barbecue that set fire to fencing and grass.
Visitors to parks such as Lydiard Park are reminded of the following:
Fires and disposable barbecues are prohibited in all Swindon country parks year-round.
Cigarettes must be fully extinguished and disposed of responsibly.
Litter should be taken home or disposed of using provided bins.
Swindon Borough Council stresses that by taking these simple precautions, visitors can help safeguard the town's parks and green spaces this summer, ensuring safety for people and wildlife.