Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service are asking people to stay safe in the summer months
Especially when visiting the countryside, using barbecues and swimming in open water
As the weather starts to get warmer, Suffolk Fire and Rescue service are asking people to stay safe throughout the summer months.
It comes after 2022 saw fire crews attended over 500 fires in the open throughout the county during July and August.
They're now asking people to follow these basic guidelines to help keep Suffolk's countryside free from fire:
•Do not discard cigarettes in the countryside
•Do not leave glass items around after a picnic or barbecue
•Put all litter in the bin
•Do not light barbecues
•Do not light fires
•If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately by calling 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
Station Manager Melvin Buck told us why the guidelines are so important:
"One, we want the public to stay safe and enjoy the weather and two, our crews whilst they are dealing with something careless like a field fire, are unable to deal with other emergencies."
They are also giving advice when it comes to barbecuing:
•Site the barbecue well away from anything flammable, such as sheds, fences and shrubs
•Never build fires in fields or forests
•Position the barbecue on a firm, level base and shelter it from gusts of wind
•Keep at least one bucket of water handy – just in case
•Use recommended fluids or fire lighters when starting a barbecue
•Never use any flammable liquid (such as petrol) to start or revive a bonfire or barbecue
Suffolk Fire and Rescue added that although sky lanterns can look beautiful, they don't support the use of them and would advise everyone to avoid using them.
Open water swimming is also a concern for the brigade in the coming months with stats showing 85% of drownings happen in open water.
To stay safe in open water you can read more guidance on the Royal Life Saving Society website.