North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service says its control room has seen a surge in calls from people worried about neighbours holding barbecues or lighting outdoor fires, in the wake of the Government’s recent emergency alert message.
The service says it understands the concern, especially with conditions still so dry, but stresses it can only attend where there’s a genuine emergency threatening life or property. Despite some recent rain, the ground remains extremely dry, and the service is urging everyone — at home or out in the countryside — to act responsibly.
For anyone having a barbecue at home, the advice is to keep it well clear of trees, fences, sheds and anything else that could catch fire, and never to leave it unattended. With the ground so parched, the service is also asking people to hold off on garden bonfires altogether.
Avoid lighting campfires
Those heading out into the countryside are being asked to bring a picnic rather than a disposable or portable barbecue, avoid lighting campfires, take all litter home — glass bottles and jars especially — and dispose of smoking materials properly.
In a genuine emergency, the advice remains to call 999. Anyone with knowledge of deliberate fire-setting in their community is asked to report it to the police on 999 or 101, or anonymously via Fire-Stoppers on 0800 169 5558 or through their website.
