During periods of hot and dry weather, the risk of fires in public areas increase.
Some fires are accidental but unfortunately, most are anti-social behaviour fires that are deliberately started.
Deliberately starting fires on public grassland, parks and open spaces is arson and can kill wildlife and cause widespread damage.
Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service is asking people who choose to enjoy the countryside and open spaces to follow some simple advice to keep the areas safe from fire.
- Take rubbish home
- Use BBQs in safe and dedicated areas
- Don’t drop cigarettes
- Don’t leave bottles on the ground
- Report grass fires immediately by calling 999, giving as much detail as possible including the nearest main road
If you have responsibility for a park or open space, please follow this advice to help us prevent and reduce fires:
- Paths can be used as natural fire breaks, keep them well maintained and trimmed back
- Regularly check and maintain open water supplies for firefighting
- Ensure any damage to walls or perimeter fences are repaired
- Consider locking access gates out of hours
- Rubbish and recycling bins should be stored on solid ground and emptied regularly
- Grass and tree cuttings should be removed from the site as soon as possible