With the onset of dry summer weather, and the gradual easing of lockdown restrictions, more people are enjoying the countryside and beaches.
However, with the weather comes added risk. Since the 29th of May, the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service have attended to 98 grass fires, a combination of those started deliberately and some that were accidental.
During the summer, grass can become very dry, leading to even minor fires having the capacity to spread very quickly, causing destruction. The level of damage these kinds of fires can cause to historic features, habitats, and wildlife goes largely unrecognized.
Carmarthenshire County Council and the Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service are urging members of the public to take the following precautionary measures and safety advice:
- Extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly – don’t throw them out of car windows.
- Only use barbeques in suitable and safe areas, never leave them unattended and always extinguish them properly.
- Don’t start fires in the countryside – dry vegetation means fires will spread quickly and easily.
- Make sure your BBQ is in good working order before you use it.
- Make sure to let your BBQ cool down after use, before you dispose or move it.
- Never start open fires in the countryside.
