Temporary disposable barbeque sale ban welcomed amid unprecedented demand

We are welcoming the temporary national ban on the sale of disposable barbeques as we continue to experience unprecedented demand across Staffordshire. 

Fire crews were called to a staggering 600 outdoor fires last month, which is an average of 20 incidents per day. 

This is almost double the demand that we were facing this time last year. 

Assistant Chief Fire Officer, Jim Bywater, said: "This summer has already been extremely demanding for our firefighters, and our resources are stretched to the limit. 

"Disposable barbeques are one of the biggest outdoor fire risks, especially during periods of warm weather and limited rainfall like we have experienced recently, so we are welcoming of the government's temporary national ban. 

"They are already banned in many areas such as Cannock Chase, as they can rapidly spread out of control and can ignite the ground easily.

"We need everyone to do their bit in helping us keep Staffordshire safe this summer, including adhering to disposable barbeque bans and enjoying the countryside responsibly.

"We're also continuing to work closely with our colleagues at Staffordshire Police to act against those ignoring these bans or starting deliberate fires, which can have catastrophic consequences for local communities, wildlife and green spaces across the county.

“Three people have already been arrested in connection with a series of recent fires and a number of investigations are ongoing.”