Warning issued following demanding summer season

Our Deputy Chief Fire Officer (DCFO), Glynn Luznyj, is pleading local residents to do their bit to help reduce the number of outdoor fires we have this spring and summer.

The call comes after latest statistics have shown that there had already been 241 outdoor fires in April alone, over half of these were started deliberately. This comes off the back of a 70 per cent increase in outdoor fires from April to September last year, in comparison to the same period the previous year.  

DCFO Glynn Luznyj said: "We were called to over 1,800 outdoor fires last spring and summer which is alarming, and unacceptable. 

"We simply cannot have a repeat of that this year. Each incident is more than just a statistic, each fire is a risk to life, landscapes destroyed and means fire engines aren’t available to attend other emergencies.

"This high number of incidents cannot become the norm and so we’re asking for people to support us in some simple ways.

“Firstly if you have teenage kids make sure they understand the consequences of starting fires. They may see it as a bit of fun; the reality is it could land them with a criminal record.

Secondly accidental fires are often preventable – whether that’s out in the countryside using disposable BBQs and dropping cigarettes, or at home burning waste in your back garden – these are all practices that can quickly start fires.

“Finally we need help in spreading our message - we need the people of Staffordshire to be aware of the consequences and know the simple steps they can take to reduce fires and ensure that message is shared.

“We want to protect the places you live and love, but we need people to support us and work with us.”

We've got specific advice on how you can minimise the risk of outdoor fires on our website Grass fire prevention.