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Beware dangers of fire during hot holiday weekends

Wednesday, 27th April 2011.

Hot dry weather has led to an increased risk of fire, particularly over holiday weekends.

Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service is urging members of the public to be aware of the potential risks posed by fire over the coming bank holiday weekend.

Fire crews attended 137 incidents throughout the county over the Easter weekend, 34 of which were heath land and countryside fires.

Andy Fry, Suffolk County Council’s chief fire officer, said: “Due to the unusually hot and dry weather we have been experiencing this April, we are beginning to see an increase in the number of fires across heath land and countryside areas.

"We are urging people to think very carefully about the potential risks when having barbecues, lighting Chinese lanterns, or disposing of smoking materials.

"We want to prevent fires wherever possible but if things do go wrong, call the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service immediately by dialing 999.”

Some basic guidelines to follow are:
Barbecues: Site the barbecue well away from anything flammable, such as sheds, fences and shrubs;
Never build fires in fields or forests;
Position the barbecue on a firm, level base and shelter it from gusts of wind;
Keep at least one bucket of water handy – just in case.

Chinese Lanterns:
Use only in very calm wind conditions. Lanterns should not be used when wind speed is above five mph;
Do not use in the vicinity of dry crops, thatched roofs or other materials that may catch fire;
Keep a fire extinguisher or bucket of water nearby;
If the lantern's paper does catch fire, extinguish and discard;
Only use in open spaces.

For more information on fire safety when outdoors this weekend please visit: http://www.suffolk.gov.uk/PolicingAndPublicSafety/FireAndRescueServices/CommunitySafety/

Haverhill Online News

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