Shropshire Fire and Rescue warns of 'extreme wildfire risk' as hot weather continues over weekend
The force is urging people to enjoy the weather responsibly
Shropshire Fire and Rescue is urging people to stay vigilant and enjoy the heat sensibly this weekend as the hot weather continues.
The force said it's preparing for an "extreme wildfire risk" for Saturday, July 11 and Sunday, July 12 as temperatures are expected to remain around 30 degrees Celsius.
Already this week, crews in the borough have responded to a number of fires in the open, including two wildfires in Kingsnordley, Bridgnorth, and in the Bicton area of north Shrewsbury.
Ross Donnelly, a wildfire support officer at Shropshire Fire and Rescue, has urged people not to have bonfires or disposable BBQs in the countryside and to avoid littering, especially things such as plastic, glass and cigarette butts.
He said at least one fire he responded too this week was caused by a cigarette butt.
"We're not dictating to people, don't do this, don't do that - please go and enjoy the nice weather," he said.
"Enjoy it responsible and my key takeaway messages are dispose of BBQs properly and around cigarette disposal, because of the refracted sunlight issue.
"And please, if you see a fire, report it immediately."
He has also urged farmer to be extra vigilant, with farming machinery being suceptible to the heat.
Agricultural workers are being asked to assume best practices and be aware of how and where they are storing their machinery.
Those who are planning to have BBQs at home are reminded to let coals cool completely before they begin tidying up and to be aware of risidual heat.
Mr Donnelly has also issued a plea to those planning on enjoying Shropshire's rolling countryside and hills not to bring disposable BBQs with them.
"When you have hot weather, a little bit on wind and a bit of elevation on a hillside, that it the perfect mix for a severe wildfire," he said.
He has praised the work of the county's fire crews and said they are prepared heading into what they expect to eb a busy weekend after an already busy week.
"We do plan for these events and we do train for these events," Mr Donnelly said.
"Our excellent fire crews, who I do want to recognise, work in this heat in structural firefighting kit - so think of going out in a sleeping bag in the weather that we're having. it's probably not that pleasent.
"So, a real shout out to our firefighters."