With summer well and truly upon us and the further easing of lockdown restrictions, many families will be getting excited about the prospect of trips to the beach, picnics in the park and a tasty barbecue. But while the warm weather brings with it a lot of fun, Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service (MFRS) is urging people to remember that summer also has a serious side.
During the warmer months, there is an increased risk of grass fires starting, the potential for carbon monoxide poisoning from barbecues and dangers involving open water.
Luckily, there are a number of simple steps that people can take to ensure they keep themselves and their families safe this summer.
When out and about, make sure cigarettes are completely extinguished before being safely disposed of to avoid grass fires. Dispose of all litter in a bin or take it home with you.
You should NEVER light a fire or barbecue in open country or woodland and should only use barbecues in a suitable and safe area – NEVER leave them unattended. Remember, barbecues are banned on most of Merseyside’s beaches!
If you do see a fire, call 999 immediately. If you’re not sure where you are, try using a geo-location app like What3Words to help pinpoint your exact location.
If you’re having a barbecue, garden gathering or spending any time outdoors this summer, make sure you follow this safety advice.