Avon Fire & Rescue Service have urged sun seekers to keep cool heads in the heat after barbeque and grass fires call-outs more than doubled on this time last May. Sunny weather is expected to continue over the bank holiday Monday, prompting more people to head outside and enjoy the weather.
Nikki Rice, prevention manager at AF&RS warned people heading out, that while campfires and BBQs can be fun, they bring a host of dangers. She said: “In April 2022, firefighters from across the area attended four barbecue fires, whilst so far in May, they have attended 11 fires of this kind. Barbecue fires can be caused by improper use of disposable barbecues, poor barbecue positioning or dry materials nearby being ignited.
“Similarly, so far this May crews have attended 21 grass fires, compared to just eight during April 2022. Grass fires can be caused by cigarettes being flicked into dry grass or vegetation, as well as bonfires and campfires spreading to nearby areas.”
