As the dry weather continues, and with temperatures set to rise again, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is renewing its call for people to take caution when outdoors.

The advice comes at a time when firefighters have responded to a number of large fires; a 'deliberately started' fire in Winfrith Newburgh last Sunday was the latest in a series of heath fires.

Dave Waters, Group Manager at the fire service, said: “The lack of rain means the ground is really dry, and any fire will spread even more quickly than usual as a result.

“The risk is as great in your garden as it is on a heathland but taking extra care, and perhaps doing things a bit differently to usual, can make a huge difference to staying safe.”

Among the advice being issued is to douse barbecue coals and fire pits with water after use and dispose of the remnants; extinguish cigarettes properly and not to throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows; and to ‘bring a picnic not a bbq’.

Further advice from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service:

  • Don’t have a bonfire at home while the conditions are so dry. If it’s absolutely necessary, make sure you have a garden hose to hand in case it starts to get out of control; site it well away from fencing, trees and property; never use petrol or another accelerant to get it started; and don’t leave it unattended.
  • Don’t have barbecues or campfires on heath or in open spaces; the risk of a fire starting is too great. Barbecues and campfires are actually banned in many country parks, campsites and open spaces, so make sure you check what is and isn’t allowed where you are, and follow the rules.
  • If you see a fire in the countryside, get to a safe place and call 999 to report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service. Please provide as much detail as possible about location - the What3Words or other location apps can help - and wait for help to arrive.

For more information about staying safe outdoors, please visit www.dwfire.org.uk/safety-outdoors