The county's Deputy Chief Fire Officer, Glynn Luznyj, has issued a plea to local communities following a sharp increase in outdoor fires. There were 241 outdoor fires in April alone this year, with more than half started deliberately. That follows a 70% rise in outdoor fires between April and September last year compared to the same period the year before.
Over 1,800 fires last spring and summer
Glynn Luznyj said the scale of the problem is "alarming and unacceptable". "We simply cannot have a repeat of that this year," he said. "Each fire is a risk to life, landscapes are destroyed, and fire engines aren't available for other emergencies."
What you can do to help
- Talk to your teenagers. Young people may see starting fires as harmless fun, but it can result in a criminal record.
- Be careful with BBQs and cigarettes. Disposable barbecues and dropped cigarettes are a common cause of accidental fires in the countryside.
- Avoid burning garden waste. Fires in back gardens can spread quickly and unexpectedly.
- Spread the word. Share the message with friends and neighbours so more people understand the risks and how to avoid them.
The fire service has detailed advice on preventing grass fires on its website. For emergencies, call 999. For general enquiries, call 0300 330 1000.
Source: staffordshirefire.gov.uk
