As summer draws near, bringing with it warmer temperatures and a surge in outdoor activities, the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is calling on the public to remain vigilant and adhere to essential safety advice. The aim is to reduce the risk of accidents and ensure the well-being of individuals and their loved ones while enjoying the good weather.

NIFRS Area Commander Suzanne Fleming highlighted the diverse range of summer activities that require caution. “Summer is a time for fun and relaxation but it is crucial to stay aware of potential dangers. If you are heading to a caravan or camping, enjoying a swim and taking a boat trip, having a picnic with family, or lighting a barbeque or fire pit with friends, please follow our safety advice. By taking proactive steps, we can help prevent accidents and keep our community safe," she said.

Commander Fleming noted a particular increase in water rescues during warmer months. “During the summer months the number of water rescues we attend alongside other partner agencies can also increase. It’s important to be aware of the many dangers of swimming in open water. Cold water can affect you physically and you can get ‘cold water shock’. Have a safety plan before going into the water."

For those enjoying camping or caravanning, she stressed the importance of alarms: “If you are camping or staying in a caravan, make sure you have both a working smoke alarm and carbon monoxide alarm, especially if you’re planning to cook whilst on holiday. Never leave the cooker or barbeque unattended or use when consuming alcohol."

Concerns about countryside fires were also raised. “The number of fires we attend in the countryside also increases over the summer. We are reminding the public to only use barbeques in a suitable and safe area and ensure they are fully extinguished and cold before disposing of it. Extinguish your cigarette ends properly and take home litter. These fires can often lead to wildfires which can be devastating for our community and can be easily prevented."

Commander Fleming concluded with a critical message: “If you spot a fire or see someone in danger, call 999."

NIFRS Summer Safety Advice:

Barbecue and Fire Pit Safety: • Site barbecues on flat ground, away from fences, trees, and shrubs.

• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby.

• Never use petrol or paraffin to start or restart a barbecue.

• Keep children, pets, and games away from the cooking area.

• Ensure the barbecue is cool before disposal.

• Remember, alcohol consumption increases accident risk.

Boat Safety:

• Fit and test a smoke alarm each time you board.

• Develop a fire action plan and ensure everyone on board knows it.

• Install a fire extinguisher in the engine compartment and cockpit locker.

• Fit a carbon monoxide detector in living spaces.

• Ensure all furnishings, foam, and insulation are fire retardant.

Camping Safety:

• Keep a torch handy; never use candles or open flames inside or near a tent.

• Always cook outdoors and well away from your tent, flammable materials, or long grass.

• Never smoke inside a tent.

• Ensure everyone knows the 'stop, drop, and roll' method if clothes catch fire.

Caravan and Mobile Home Safety:

• Park caravans and mobile homes at least 6 metres apart.

• Create a fire escape plan.

• In case of fire: get out, stay out, and call the Fire & Rescue Service immediately.

• Fit a smoke alarm and test it weekly.

• Consider a fire extinguisher and blanket, and know how to use them.

• Fit a carbon monoxide detector and keep air vents clear.

• Smoke outside the caravan.

Water Safety:

• Swim at lifeguarded beaches, between red and yellow flags.

• Be aware of hidden currents or submerged debris.

• Always swim with others and look out for each other; ensure someone is watching with a means to call for help.

• Wear a flotation device.

• If you see someone in difficulty in the water: CALL for help (preferably a lifeguard or dial 999), TELL them to float on their back, THROW them something that floats.

Wildfires:

• Do not discard cigarette ends on the ground or from car windows.

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.

• Do not leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland.

• Only use barbecues in suitable, safe areas and never leave them unattended.

• Do not attempt to tackle fires that cannot be extinguished with a bucket of water; leave the area quickly.

• Report any countryside fire to NIFRS immediately on 999.