Fire service warns of grass fire and open water risks during north Wales heatwave
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to take extra care with barbecues, fires and open water after an amber warning for extreme heat was issued for the region.
Paul Kay, Head of Fire Safety at North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, said dry conditions meant even a small spark could spread quickly.
Paul said: “With the current hot and dry weather conditions, even a small spark can quickly develop into a rapidly spreading fire. We encourage everyone to take simple precautions to help keep our communities safe. Grass fires can start within seconds, and barbecues that are not used responsibly can easily become a fire risk. By remaining vigilant, disposing of cigarettes safely, and only using barbecues in appropriate locations, you can play an important role in preventing avoidable fires and protecting those around you.”
The service is asking people to avoid lighting fires in open spaces, including disposable barbecues, and to keep barbecues away from fences and trees.
Paul also warned against swimming in lakes, canals and other unsupervised bodies of water, saying the risks were not always obvious.
He said: “While open water may appear tempting during warm weather, I’m urging people to avoid swimming in lakes, canals, and other unsupervised bodies of water, as hidden hazards can pose serious risks.”
He said parents and guardians should speak to their children about the dangers, adding that teenagers were more likely to underestimate the risks of using open water to cool down.
“It is especially important for parents and guardians to talk to their children about the dangers of open water. Teenagers in particular may be more likely to venture out with friends and underestimate the risks involved in using open water to cool down, which can have serious and potentially tragic consequences.”
The service is reminding people that water can remain dangerously cold even during hot weather and advises anyone who gets into difficulty to use the Float to Live technique, staying calm and floating on their back rather than trying to swim.
If someone is seen in difficulty in the water, the advice is not to enter the water yourself but to call 999, tell the person to float on their back and throw any available rescue equipment to them until emergency services arrive.
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service has directed residents to Public Health Wales for further advice, available at phw.nhs.wales.
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