Heatwave advice given after grassland fires in the Black Country
West Midlands fire chiefs have issued advice on being safe around grassland areas as the fourth heatwave of the summer continues.
The advice comes after another fire at Sedgley Beacon last night (August 12), the second in three days.
In both cases, the first on Saturday night, firefighters quickly extinguished the blaze before it could spread. Four crews attended on Saturday night to 'a large grass fire.'
Last night, they were called to a small fire in a park.
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesman said: "Shortly before 7.25pm on Tuesday, August 12, we responded to Beacon Lane, Sedgley.
"A 4x4 brigade response vehicle from Wolverhampton responded, arriving within five minutes of being mobilised. Firefighters used a knapsack to extinguish a small fire affecting grass in a nearby park.
"We left this incident at 8.27pm."
"Given the nature of the weather recently there is advice that the public could follow if they wish:
"Don’t use disposable barbecues in public spaces. If barbecuing at home, always ensure it's fully extinguished when you’ve finished cooking. Never put hot ashes into a dustbin or wheelie bin.
"Don’t drop litter as items like glass bottles can reflect sunlight and ignite dry vegetation into flame. Always take your rubbish home with you.
"Ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished. Use proper bins to dispose of cigarette butts or take them with you. Small smouldering embers can spark dangerous fires.
"Ideally, never have an open fire of any kind in the countryside.
"If a fire breaks out outdoors, call 999 immediately and ask for the fire service.
"Be clear about your location and mention any nearby landmarks to the call handler, as it can help direct fire crews to the correct location.
"Don’t attempt to fight fires yourself unless it is very small and can be put out with a bucket of water."
