Fire service issue safety advice following a number of outdoor fires this week

Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is issuing important safety advice following a number of outdoor fires this week.

Head of Community Safety Lee Lucas said: “We have been experiencing soaring temperatures and dry conditions for over a week now and the forecasts looks like it will continue well into next week. The weather has made our countryside very dry and the risk of fires increase.

"We want everyone to have fun and enjoy the weather by going outside, but it is important to stay fire aware when out and about to ensure we can minimalise the fire risk.

"This week we have seen incidents involving bonfires which have spread out of control because the ground is so dry. These fires can be devastating and can cause significant damage. They can take hold and spread at great speed. If you're thinking of having a bonfire please reconsider and wait until the current weather conditions have subsided.”

Following our outdoor fire safety advice to avoid fires:

Extinguish cigarettes properly, don't throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.
Take your rubbish with you, especially glass bottles, which can magnify the sun's rays and start a fire
Do not have bonfires during hot and dry weather conditions
If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately
Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water — leave the area as soon as possible

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