Spate of outdoor fires sparks safety message as warm weather continues

We’ve been busy responding to a series of large fires across Staffordshire recently and we’re urging people to take extra steps to keep safe.

One recent incident on Sunday (12 July) saw a total of 11 appliances working to extinguish a grass fire in Stafford, alongside support from Shropshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Yesterday (Monday 13 July), a grass fire was brought under control by multiple crews off Adbaston Lane, Stafford. Hotspots continue to be dampened down today (Tuesday 14 July).

In Cannock, a number of crews responded to a fire measuring around 50 metres by 100 metres on Shoal Hill Common on Monday (13 July), which was later extinguished.

The burned remnants of a disposable barbeque was also found in the Cannock Chase area, which had the potential to escalate into a significant wildfire.

In Rugeley, a grass fire measuring around 100 metres by 100 metres took place off Heather Close on Friday evening (10 July), with the cause later deemed deliberate.

Head of Prevent, Protect and Partnerships, Nick Jones, said: “Fire crews have been extremely busy during the heatwave, as expected, and we anticipate this heightened demand is only going to get worse as the dry summer spell continues.

“This is typically a time of year that we see more people going into open water to try and cool off, more people using barbecues and more people outside enjoying the sunshine.

“Because of the prolonged dry weather and the sweeping winds that are forecast over this week, outdoor fires can spread rapidly and quickly become difficult to control.

“I’d urge people in Staffordshire to familiarise yourself with the key safety messages on our website that can help prevent serious incidents from taking place in your area. This includes not using barbeques in open spaces, disposing of cigarettes and rubbish properly and not entering open water.”

For specific advice on how to stay safe, visit our website here