Outdoor safety
When summer comes, many people take to the countryside to enjoy the sunshine and make memories. Make sure that you’re remembering this summer for the right reasons by following our outdoor safety advice.
Our advice covers preventing wildfires and what to do if you encounter a fire.
Preventing wildfires
- Avoid open fires in the countryside. Always have them in safe, designated areas.
- Only use disposable barbecues where it’s safe and legal to do so, and ensure they are used on a non-flammable, flat surface, such as a paving slab.
- Keep barbecues away from flammable materials such as fences, trees, dry plants and furniture.
- Put out cigarettes and other smoking materials properly before you leave your vehicle.
- Never throw a cigarette out of a car windows.
- Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodlands. Sunlight shining through glass can start a fire. Take them home or put them in a recycling bin.
- Make sure to familiarise yourself with The Countryside Code so that you know how to enjoy the countryside respectfully.
If you come across a fire in the countryside
- Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as soon as possible and call 999
- If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately
- If your clothes catch fire: stop, drop and roll to put the fire out
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