Beware of fire risks in warm weather

Along with rising temperatures comes the risk of outdoor fires which start easily in such dry, warm conditions. Banbridge people have been warned to be aware that local communities could be left exposed to potentially dangerous situations involving gorse, grass and bush fires.

The NIFRS, who have attended 228 outdoor fires in the last week alone said these fires, many of which are being started deliberately, are diverting crews away from other emergencies.

Peter Craig, Assistant Chief Fire Officer, said, “With this current spell of dry sunny weather we have seen a sharp increase in the number of fires involving gorse, grass, bushes and leaves and the reality is that local communities may be left exposed while Firefighters are out tackling these fires.

“When Fire Crews respond to these types of fires it can be for prolonged periods of time, depending on the nature of the fire, and NIFRS has to ensure continued emergency cover across Northern Ireland by moving resources around.

“That may mean that in a real emergency, resources from further afield may have to respond as we cannot be in two places at once.

“While the majority of gorse fires we have attended in recent years have been started deliberately, they can also start accidentally through carelessness. We would appeal to the public to take extra care when out and about in the countryside and follow our fire safety advice so that everyone can enjoy the countryside,” he added.