Enjoy a safe summer by following these tips

Summer is here and Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service (GFRS) is reminding everyone to be safe while they are enjoying the warm weather.

With the easing of lockdown restrictions more people are enjoying spending time outdoors and going on holiday.

The dry ground means there is a greater risk of a fire starting, but many fires can be prevented by following the advice.

Keep in mind some simple safety tips to ensure you and your family can enjoy a #SafeSummer.

• Have a working smoke alarm in your home or caravan if you are going on holiday
• Never use candles in a caravan or tent
• Avoid open fires in the countryside and don’t light barbecues on dry grass or leave unattended
• Do not leave bottles or glass in woodland as sunlight shining through could start a fire
• If you are walking home take a safe route away from water
• If you’re looking to cool off find a swimming site where there is a lifeguard
• Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows
• Check on elderly friends and neighbours during the hot weather

Cllr Dave Norman, cabinet member with responsibility for the Fire and Rescue Service, said: “It’s important to follow the safety advice so everyone in Gloucestershire can enjoy their summer safely without any fires or injuries.

“The Fire and Rescue Service has been carrying out a variety of other roles as part of the Covid-19 response so it’s more important than ever to prevent any accidents or fires and avoid placing any extra pressure on the emergency services at this time.”

Wayne Bowcock, chief fire officer, said: “While we’re enjoying warmer weather we would like to remind everyone to follow our tips to stay safe. The dry ground means there is a greater chance of fire so please do not leave bottles or glass in woodland or throw cigarette ends out of cars as these can all cause wildfires.

“We would urge everyone to stay safe around water as it can be tempting to cool off when it’s warm and please take extra care if you’re having a barbecue.

“It’s also important to keep following the Covid-19 guidance, particularly around social distancing, gatherings, hand washing and face coverings, so everyone can stay safe and enjoy the summer.”

If you see a fire in the countryside or woodland, call 999 and only try to extinguish it if it can be done with a single bucket of water.

Arson incidents also increase during the summer so anyone who sees any suspicious activity is urged to report it to the police.

For more safety advice, please visit www.glosfire.gov.uk