Flintshire fire alert during heatwave

Jun 29 2009 by George Tattum, Flintshire Chronicle

NORTH Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging the public to avoid lighting fires in the countryside during the current hot weather.

They also want information on anyone seen starting a blaze deliberately.

A campaign to reduce the number of countryside fires across the region had resulted in a steady decline - but since April there has been a notable increase which is causing concern, especially with the forecast of a hot summer.

Sandra Williams, North Wales Arson Reduction Team manager, said: “Attending these incidents puts a tremendous pressure on resources, with firefighters being tied up for considerable lengths of time to bring these fires under control.

“Quite often these fires happen where access is extremely difficult and water supply is limited.

“Not only are fire crews not available to attend other incidents but there is widespread damage to the environment and wildlife - and these fires can escalate quickly to put homes at risk and endanger the lives of people and livestock.

“All fires, no matter how small should be reported immediately as they can quickly and easily spread out of control.”

Anyone with information on people deliberately starting fires in the countryside can call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or contact the police on 0845 6071001 (Welsh line) or 0845 6071002 (English line).

The Fire and Rescue Service is also urging visitors to the countryside to take extra care when they are out and about and reduce the risk of fire.