Posted: Thursday 27 June 2019, 16:17
Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service is appealing to members of the public to take extra care as a hot sunny weekend is forecast.
Have a safe weekend by following our top tips:
Garden Fire/Controlled Burns
AVOID having a garden fire during the current dry spell.
Fires can spread rapidly over tinder dry grass, to overhanging trees and shrubs and spread to fencing, shed and even the home.
Barbecue Safety
- Keep the barbecue away from overhanging trees/shrubs and away from sheds, garages, the home and any pet enclosures.
- Never use petrol or accelerants to light the barbecue.
- If using a disposable barbecue, place it on a hard, fire proof surface – never on dry grass.
- Place hot coals onto bare earth to cool down and never put them into a wheelie bin, or other bin that could catch fire. Consider the safe disposal of one-use barbecues.
- Keep a bucket of water, or hose pipe on hand in case of an emergency.
Fire Safety in the Open
Derbyshire has some beautiful countryside which supports a thriving ecosystem of plants and animals. In order to protect this from the devastation of fire, we ask that people are mindful of the following advice:
- Don’t throw/discard cigarettes out of car windows. Dispose of them properly.
- Don’t leave glass bottles lying around – the sun can magnify through the glass causing a fire.
- If having a BBQ in the open, make sure you place it on bare earth, away from dry grass, and never leave the BBQ until it is completely out.
Water Safety
Water may look safe, but it can be dangerous. Learn to spot and keep away from dangers. You may swim well in a warm indoor pool, but that does not mean that you will be able to swim in cold water. The dangers of water include:
- Very cold temperatures
- Hidden Currents
- Fast flowing water, beware of locks and weirs
- Deep water, it can be difficult to estimate the depth
- There may be hidden rubbish or debris under the surface that can trap, snag or cut
- It can be difficult to get out, banks can be steep, slimy and crumble away
- No lifeguards, most outdoors waterways do not have lifeguards
- Water pollution may make you ill
DFRS have recently produced a video titled ‘Shock’, which highlights the dangers of suffering cold water shock in open water.
In the case of an emergency, call 999 immediately.
For more information about keeping safe outdoors, visit www.derbys-fire.gov.uk.
To stay up to date with everything the Service is up to and for up to date safety tips, follow us on social media:
Twitter: @DerbyshireFRS
Facebook: @DerbyshireFRS
Instagram: @derbyshirefrs