Fires: islanders warned to be more careful

Monday 02 July 2018

As islanders enjoyed the fine summer weather this weekend, it seems some people helped make it a little bit too hot.

The Fire Service is urging islanders to be more careful with how they dispose of BBQ's, or where they light campfires, after being called on to put out multiple blazes on the headland.

With the massive fire on Sandleworth Moor near Oldham still in the news, local fire fighters are worried that people aren't taking enough care in the hot, dry weather. 

Troops from 4 SCOTS continue to assist fire fighters from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service as they battle to control a fire on Saddleworth Moor#ProtectingTheNation #WorkingTogether pic.twitter.com/dAk3mubGZj

— British Army (@BritishArmy) July 1, 2018

They want islanders to dispose of portable BBQ's properly, and only use them in designated areas. And people should avoid lighting campfires in dense vegetation or where access is difficult for the fire fighters, if it gets out of control. 

Watch Commander John Le Cornu explains: "Jersey Fire and Rescue attended multiple fires along Jerseys headland over the weekend that have been started by the careless abandonment of deliberately light campfires and BBQ’s.  These incidents could have easily been avoided by ensuring the fires were attended until fully extinguished. While we experience a period of dry, hot weather it is crucial that the public do not light fires in areas of dense vegetation, as well as the increased risk of rapid fire spread it also makes access for Firefighters and equipment difficult.

"If using BBQ’s, please stay in designated BBQ areas and before leaving ensure that it is fully extinguished, cool, and disposed of in a metal bin or container.  We would urge the public to bear in mind the events in the UK, and avoid lighting campfires anywhere except for clear open areas with good water supplies and easy access for vehicles."