Fire Cadets starred in a video highlighting the wildfire risk BBQs can pose.
‘Careless actions can have serious consequences.’
That’s the message from County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) as it releases a hard-hitting video urging people to pack a picnic instead of a BBQ.
The warning comes as the North East gets ready for a spell of hot and dry weather this week - conditions which can lead to an increased risk of wildfires, especially when exposed to flame.
In the video, starring CDDFRS Fire Cadets, a group of teenagers can be seen arriving at a grassland area and lighting a disposable BBQ on the ground.
When the group decides to go home, they leave the BBQ smouldering on the grass, along with their glass pop bottles.
Thick black smoke can then be seen billowing in the sky followed by the sound of fire engines racing to the area where the abandoned BBQ has caused a wildfire.
The fire service then urges people to ‘pack a picnic, not a BBQ’ and warns that ‘careless actions can have serious consequences.’
CDDFRS Group Manager Dan Wootton hopes the video will highlight the wildfire risk BBQs can pose and encourage people to pack a picnic instead.
“Not ensuring your BBQ or campfire is fully extinguished before you leave can lead to fires which can quickly spread,” he said.
“Take your rubbish home as reflective items like glass bottles can also start a fire.
“Wildfires can have devastating consequences on the landscape and put lives at risk but by making these small choices, you can significantly reduce that risk.”
Between April 2022 and March 2024 CDDFRS crews have tackled 18 wildfires across County Durham and Darlington, many of which were in grassland areas.
Dan added: “If you see a possible wildfire, call 999 immediately and ask for the fire and rescue service. Do not attempt to tackle it yourself.”
CDDFRS has issued the following advice to help the public stay safe this summer and reduce the risk of wildfires:
- Pack a picnic instead of a BBQ.
- Do not start fires in the countryside. This includes campfires.
- Take your litter home.
- If you see a possible wildfire, get to a place of safety immediately and then call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.
- Never leave a lit BBQ unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished before disposing of it.
