As families across Northern Ireland prepare for Easter celebrations and outdoor activities, the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is urging everyone to prioritise fire safety. Group Commander Paul Morrow has provided some key advice to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday period.

Safe Baking of Easter Treats:

Easter often involves baking, and NIFRS advises vigilance in the kitchen. Cooking should never be left unattended. If you need to leave the kitchen, even briefly, pans should be removed from the heat or the cooker turned off entirely. Be aware of hot surfaces and keep flammable items such as oven mitts, tea towels, and electrical cables away from the hob.

Countryside Fire Prevention:

For those planning to enjoy Northern Ireland's countryside over the Easter break, caution is essential to prevent wildfires. NIFRS recommends:

• Using barbecues only in suitable, clear areas and ensuring they are completely extinguished and cold before disposing of the contents.

• Disposing of cigarette butts responsibly and never discarding them on the ground, particularly in dry vegetation. • Avoiding leaving bottles or glass in woodland or grassland, as sunlight magnified through glass can ignite fires. Instead, take them home or use a designated waste or recycling bin.

• Reporting any sightings of fire in the countryside immediately by calling 999.

Fire Safety During Weekend Getaways:

For those embarking on trips or caravan holidays this Easter, NIFRS emphasises the importance of fire safety away from home. Key advice includes:

• Switching off and unplugging electrical appliances and devices before travelling.

• Parking caravans at least 6 metres apart.

• Ensuring caravans are equipped with working smoke alarms.

• Familiarising yourself with emergency exits and planning evacuation routes in case of a fire or alarm activation.

To further promote fire safety awareness during the school break, NIFRS has made an Easter Safety Quiz available for children to complete a safety pledge.

From everyone at the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, they extend wishes for a fun, safe, and happy Easter.