Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Sunday 6th April 2025 at 07:30hrs
Residents across Lancashire are enjoying the pleasant sunshine and warmer temperatures today, but local authorities are urging everyone to remain vigilant and take extra precautions to prevent wildfires.
The dry conditions, coupled with the increased outdoor activity, elevate the risk of fires spreading rapidly across the county’s beautiful landscapes.
A timely reminder has been issued, emphasizing the dangers associated with outdoor cooking methods.
“While we understand people want to make the most of the lovely weather, we strongly advise against using disposable BBQs in open areas,” a spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service stated.
“These can easily ignite dry grass and vegetation, quickly escalating into dangerous and destructive wildfires.”
The advice is clear: opt for a traditional picnic instead. Packing sandwiches, salads, and other ready-to-eat items is a safe and enjoyable way to dine outdoors without posing a fire risk.
For those venturing out into Lancashire’s countryside and parks, vigilance is key.
The Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to be their eyes and ears.
“If you happen to see a fire, no matter how small it may seem, please don’t hesitate to call 999 immediately,” the spokesperson stressed.
“It’s crucial not to assume someone else has already reported it. Your prompt action could make all the difference in containing a fire before it gets out of control.”
When reporting a fire, the public is asked to provide as much detail as possible to help emergency services respond effectively and efficiently.
Key information to relay includes:
* A clear description of the location: Be as precise as possible, using landmarks, grid references (if known), or nearby roads.
* An estimate of the fire’s size: Is it a small patch or has it already spread significantly?
* The terrain of the area: Is it grassland, woodland, moorland, or other types of vegetation? Are there any access challenges?
* Any other relevant information: This could include wind direction, whether any property or livestock is at risk, or any potential cause of the fire if it is safe to observe.
The message from local authorities is a collaborative one.
“We don’t want to see the devastating impact of wildfires spreading across our county,” the spokesperson concluded. “By being mindful of our actions and reporting any fires promptly, together, we can look after Lancashire and protect our precious natural environment.”
Residents are encouraged to share this important safety information with friends and family to ensure everyone enjoys the sunny weather responsibly and helps keep Lancashire safe from wildfires.
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