Keep safe during the extreme heat.

Bonfires

• Do not have a bonfire in your garden or elsewhere. The risk of wildfires in Buckinghamshire is currently very high and bonfires could easily grow out of control.

Barbecues and wood burners

• Again, avoid using them during extreme heat warning periods. If you do choose to light one, avoid the over consumption of alcohol if you are on cooking duty, barbecues must be monitored carefully to avoid any fire risks.
• Position your barbecue away from flammable materials such as foliage, fences, garden sheds/outbuildings and dry grass.
• Keep sand or water nearby in case of an emergency.
• Do not leave a barbecue or wood burner unattended to burn out. Use water to completely extinguish it to prevent coals or wood from reigniting.

Field/wildfires

• Hot, dry weather makes the ground more susceptible to wildfires, so be more cautious about your behaviour.
• Do not dispose of cigarettes on the ground. Always ensure that they have been extinguished before throwing them away.
• Avoid lighting disposable barbecues or open fires in the countryside.
• Glass bottles and other reflective materials can start fires if left in direct sunlight. To avoid this, ensure these are disposed of carefully and are not left in the sun.
• Call 999 if you discover a wildfire, noting the location of the fire. Be as specific as you can about the location, apps like what3words can help fire crews to attend the location quickly. Do not attempt to tackle the blaze yourself.

Water safety

• Never swim alone in open water. The safest way to cool off is at a designated open water swimming site or as part of an organised activity.
• Take care when swimming in lakes, quarries, canals or rivers. You can never be certain what is hiding beneath the water. Hidden debris, currents or weeds can injure or trap unsuspecting swimmers
• Beware of cold water shock when swimming in water. The difference between air and water temperatures can cause even the most experienced swimmers immense difficulty.
• If somebody has fallen into water: Call 999 and identify the specific location of the person.
• Do not enter the water to help a person who has fallen in, instead prompt them to lean back and float to live for approximately 90 seconds until the effects of cold water shock subside.

• If there are life aids, such as life buoys or throw bags, follow the instructions on them when throwing them to the person. If no specific life aid is there, a football can aid buoyancy.

For more information about how to stay safe outdoors, please visit our Safety Advice Hub bucksfire.gov.uk/safety-advice-hub