Fire warning as glorious sunshine continues

As the north Powys area continues to bask under glorious sunshine, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) is urging people to take extra care, particularly when it comes to the increased fire risks and taking care around lakes and rivers.

With the warm weather expected to continue towards the weekend, forcing the cancellation of some events due to ‘extreme heat warnings’, the fire service is reminding us all that the dry spell brings its own challenges for them.

They have asked for our help to reduce the risk of fires, including grass and countryside fires, which place added pressures on people, infrastructure and emergency services.

Aled Griffiths, Head of Community Safety for MAWWFRS, said: “With very high temperatures forecast across Wales this week, it’s important that we all take extra care to stay safe and to reduce avoidable risks.

“We want everyone to enjoy the sunshine, but these conditions can increase the likelihood of incidents, including fires and water-related emergencies.

“Small actions can make a big difference – whether that’s using barbecues safely, disposing of smoking materials responsibly, or taking extra care around open water.”

The Service is reminding residents and visitors to follow this key safety advice:

Barbecue and outdoor safety

• Always place barbecues on a flat, non-combustible surface, well away from buildings, fences, dry grass and shrubs.
• Never leave a barbecue unattended.
• Ensure it is fully extinguished and cool before disposing of ashes.

Fire prevention

• Avoid lighting fires in the open, including campfires, especially in dry, grassy or rural areas.
• Do not discard cigarettes, matches or glass bottles, as these can easily ignite fires in hot conditions.
• Don’t start fires in the countryside – dry vegetation means fires will spread quickly and easily.
• It is illegal to burn grass or garden waste during this time of year.

Water safety

• Take care when swimming in open water such as lakes, rivers and reservoirs – the water can be much colder than expected.
• Avoid jumping or diving into unknown waters.

• Never enter the water under the influence of alcohol.

Float To Live

To float to live in case of trouble in the water, follow these steps:

• Tilt your head back with your ears submerged.
• Relax and try to breathe normally.
• Move your hands and legs to help you stay afloat; it's okay if your legs sink, as we all float differently.

Practice floating in a supervised location like a swimming pool to learn how to control your breathing and  stay afloat. This technique can help you regain control of your breathing and call for help or swim to safety once you're stable.

Many people, particularly those unfamiliar with outdoor swimming, may underestimate hidden risks. Submerged hazards and consistently low water temperatures mean that cold water shock remains a real danger, even on hot days. This can trigger an involuntary gasp, rapid breathing, panic, and a sudden loss of swimming ability, drastically increasing the risk of drowning.

If someone is in trouble in the water, the best way to help is by staying calm, staying on land, and remember Phone, Float, Throw:

• Phone 999 for the emergency services.
• Tell them to stay calm and float on their back.
• Throw rescue equipment to help them float until emergency services arrive

For safety messages, information, advice, or guidance on Water Safety, please check out our Social Media channels and visit our website.

Find out more about #WildfireWise, where you can also access some simple safety tips and download the campaign’s safety messages for use on your own social media channels.