Cambs FRS - Fire Services urges residents to think twice before lighting a fire and consider the impact it might have

With the Easter weekend forecast to be warm, bright and sunny, residents are reminded to be sensible and keep fire safe while remaining at home.

The government’s advice to stay home, protect the NHS, save lives continues to be in place, and with the sun expected to shine, lighting a bonfire in the garden or having a BBQ is ever more tempting. However Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to think twice before lighting a fire and consider the impact it might have.

Chief Fire Officer Chris Strickland said: “Lighting any kind of fire poses risks. Having a bonfire in your garden might seem a good idea to get rid of waste from a clear out, but these can easily get out of control. It could also aggravate health conditions for neighbours, particularly if they are isolating due to COVID-19 symptoms.

“It is possible to have a safe BBQ but we urge people to follow some simple tips like placing it on level ground away from fences, sheds, trees and other garden furniture. Also wait until it is fully out and cooled down before disposing of it and where possible, keep a bucket of water, sand, or a garden hose nearby for emergencies.”

So far since the government advice to stay at home, crews have attended more than 50 outdoor fires.