Fire service issue warning over hot weather fire risk

A warning about the risk of fires spreading in the hot weather has been issued by the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service. Firefighters on the Island have had to tackle an increasing number of fires in the open in recent weeks. With vegetation so dry due to the sustained hot weather, small fires can spread very quickly, potentially destroying areas of countryside and wildlife habitats. The following advice has been issued to help stop fires starting: Extinguish cigarettes properly and don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground – take your litter home. Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows. Avoid using open fires in the countryside. Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodland – sunlight shining through glass can start fires (take them home to recycle). Only use barbecues in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended. If you see a fire in the countryside, report it to the fire and rescue service immediately on 999. Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.