Humberside Fire and Rescue Service has issued a cautionary note for all sunny weather enthusiasts to exercise extra vigilance in preventing fires amidst the current dry spell. The risk of fires is predicted to rise as we brace for warmer climes this weekend. The service has noted an alarming uptick of approximately a third in field and agricultural fire incidents from January to March, compared to the usual expectancy for this period. Mike Anthony, the service’s emergency preparedness chief, encourages the public to relish the summer heat ‘responsibly’. Anthony elaborates, ‘We’re experiencing wetter winters, leading to accelerated vegetation growth. By the time spring comes around, it’s all dried out. Coupled with the increasing temperatures over the summer months, this contributes to a rise in fires.’ The National Fire Chiefs Council affirms this worrying trend, stating that 286 wildfires have been recorded this year in the UK, over 100 more than the same period in 2022, a year marked by record temperatures and wildfire activity. Anthony suggests that such incidents are becoming distressingly common. The Met Office has echoed these concerns, suggesting a severe risk of wildfires due to above-average temperatures expected in the coming week. Humberside Fire and Rescue Service has issued a series of guidelines to minimise the risk of fire, such as taking all rubbish home, avoiding cigarettes and open flames in dry areas, checking machinery for sparks, and always having water or a fire extinguisher on hand when working outdoors.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
