Warmer weather brings more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, but it can also increase the risk of fires at home, in gardens and in the countryside.
Whether you’re having a barbecue or camping with family, taking a few simple precautions can help keep everyone safe.
BBQ and garden fire safety
Barbecues, fire pits and chimeneas can quickly become dangerous if they're not used safely.
- Never leave a barbecue, fire pit or chimenea unattended.
- Keep children, pets and games away from the cooking area.
- Place them on level ground, well away from fences, sheds, trees and garden waste.
- Disposable barbecues can remain hot for several hours and have been responsible for a number of grass and countryside fires. Never place them directly on dry grass and only use them where permitted.
- Avoid using fire pits and chimeneas during hot, dry or windy conditions.
- Never use petrol or other flammable liquids to start or revive a barbecue.
- Allow barbecues, fire pits and chimeneas to cool completely before disposing of ashes.
Camping, caravan and boat fire safety
- Take extra care when cooking and using fuel-burning equipment outdoors.
- Never use barbecues, camping stoves or portable heaters inside tents, awnings or other enclosed spaces.
- Keep cooking equipment well away from combustible materials and ensure any naked flames are fully extinguished before leaving them unattended.
- Ensure caravans, motorhomes and boats are fitted with working smoke alarms.
- Make sure exits are kept clear and everyone knows how to escape safely in an emergency.
- Always extinguish campfires completely before leaving them unattended.
Countryside fire safety
- Fires can spread quickly during hot, dry weather.
- Only light fires where permitted and follow local guidance.
- Dispose of cigarettes and smoking materials responsibly and never throw them from a vehicle.
- Take litter home with you and don't leave glass bottles behind.
- If you discover a fire in the countryside, move to a place of safety and call 999 immediately.