Northamptonshire residents urged to remain vigilant during hot weather – and avoid risk of starting fires

With the weather set to top 25 degrees or more over the next few days in Northamptonshire – the Fire Service is reminding residents to remain vigilant as the risk of fire increases.

The Fire Severity Index (FSI), which predicts how severe a wildfire could become if one were to ignite, is at ‘very high’ level. This means if a fire was to ignite, it could spread quickly.

With such dry conditions, any small fire can become a much bigger fire. To try and prevent such fires happening in your area, please follow this advice:

• Throw cigarettes away responsibly
• Take any litter home, as glass can magnify sunlight and start fires
• Avoid using barbecues and disposable grills in open areas, and when using at home, keep them well clear of trees, shrubs, sheds and other flammable items
• Avoid having bonfires
• Park vehicles on hard surfaces, not on dry grass as hot exhausts can ignite fires

The Fire Service would also urge parents and guardians to ensure young people are aware of the risks of starting fires, however small, in the current conditions.

Andy Evans, of the joint Fire and Police Arson Task Force, said: “We work hard in schools and communities to educate people and raise awareness not only of the dangers of fire setting, but the potential impact on a young person’s future and job prospects if they have a criminal record for arson.

“Our fire crews being called to deliberately lit fires also affects our ability to respond to more serious and possibly life-threatening incidents such as house fires or road traffic accidents.

“So we would ask parents and guardians to make sure their children are aware of the risks that setting a fire, no matter how small, could pose – and the impact it could have.”

If you see a fire, call 999. If you have information about deliberate fires, you can report it anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.