Fire warnings as heatwave continues across Devon
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue service are sharing safety tips
As the warm weather continues across Devon, the local Fire Brigade are reminding people to stay safe.
Most grass fires are caused by human activity with something as small as a lit cigarette or a spark from a disposable BBQ igniting dry brush and quickly turning into a fast-moving fire.
Steve Fisher from Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue service said:
"Only 10 to 15% of the wildfires that we see in the UK are started naturally. So that means the vast majority are started by human actions. So we need to be very mindful when we're out enjoying the outdoors, particularly in this heat."
"We're looking at things like barbecues. So we all love to go outdoors, have a nice barbecue in lovely weather. But at this particular time, with it being so dry disposable barbecues can so easily and very quickly start a fire."
"If you have a picnic also need to be responsible and take our litter home with us. What we've seen is any glass objects in some undergrowth can mean the sun magnify through it and again very easy start a fire."
Other advice includes safely disregarding cigarettes, avoiding bonfires and being mindful of where you leave your car running as hot exhausts can also start a fire.
Wildfires take a large amount of resources and can easily be avoided by being aware of simple ways to stay safe in the warm weather.