Residents are being urged to take extra care during the current spell of hot weather as fire crews warn of an increased risk of countryside fires and water-related emergencies.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service has issued a public safety warning as temperatures continue to rise across the region, reminding people to act responsibly when enjoying parks, countryside areas and waterways.
The warning comes after a number of major heath and woodland fires in recent years, many of which the service says could have been prevented.
Firefighters are asking people not to use disposable barbecues, fire pits or campfires in open spaces, particularly on heathland and in woodland areas where dry conditions can allow flames to spread rapidly. Many country parks and public open spaces already prohibit such activities.
The service is also urging smokers to dispose of cigarettes responsibly and not throw cigarette ends onto the ground or from vehicle windows.
Residents are being advised to avoid lighting bonfires at home while the hot and dry conditions continue. Where a bonfire is unavoidable, householders are encouraged to have a hosepipe or water source nearby and never use petrol or other accelerants.
Fire crews have also highlighted the danger posed by barbecue coals and fire pits, which can remain dangerously hot for several hours after use.
As temperatures rise, many people are expected to head to rivers, lakes and other open water locations. However, the fire service is reminding the public that water temperatures often remain surprisingly cold, even during warm weather.
This can lead to cold water shock, a sudden physical response that can affect breathing, trigger panic and make swimming difficult.
Advice from the service states that anyone who finds themselves struggling in water should resist the urge to thrash around, lean back and float on their back until the initial effects pass before calling for help or making their way to safety.
Members of the public are also warned never to enter the water to attempt a rescue.
Group Manager Shaun Milton said the forecast conditions meant everyone needed to think carefully about their plans.
“The exceptional weather that is forecast for the coming days means that we all need to take care when out and about,” he said.
“We want people to enjoy the sunshine, but we do urge everyone to think about what they’re doing and perhaps amend their plans to stay as safe as possible.”
He also encouraged motorists to carry drinking water in their vehicles, warning that traffic delays during hot weather can quickly lead to dehydration.
Emergency services are asking anyone who spots a fire in the countryside to move to a place of safety and call 999 immediately, providing as much information as possible about the location.
With warm weather expected to continue, firefighters hope a few simple precautions will help prevent avoidable incidents and ensure people can enjoy the sunshine safely.
