Derbyshire fire chief warns of barbecue fire dangers over bank holiday weekend

Speaking on one of the hottest days of the year, CFO Tomlinson made his plea amid fears that the warmer weather could cause a surge in emergency incidents across Derbyshire and a

rise in the number of people travelling into the county.

These are the rules around having a BBQ during lockdown - and the fines for flouting them

He said: “The government is calling for people to Stay Alert and I wholeheartedly support that message. This is an unprecedented time for our country as we find ways of keeping safe, preventing the spread of the virus and also working together to save our NHS, but there are other risks that we need to ensure our communities are aware of to keep them safe from the risk of fire and other emergencies.

“With any period of warm weather comes the tradition of dusting off the barbecue and enjoying a burger or two, but that doesn’t come without risk.

Only last weekend firefighters attended a fire where hot barbecue coals had been emptied into a waste bin at the end of the evening – and yes, the bin caught fire. If that had been a wheelie bin next to a fence, or house, we would have been dealing with a far more serious fire than we did on this occasion.

“Another risk that has increased during lockdown comes from people burning garden and household waste.

“While people may think they are in control of these fires, things can quickly get out of hand with overhanging trees, shrubs and the ground being so dry due to a lack of rain. It only takes a minute for things to get out of control, therefore I am appealing to people to sign our pledge not to have a garden fire.

“Be kind to your neighbours who would have to cope with the smoke, and be sensible, find an alternative way of disposing of your waste. Recycling centres are now reopening and you can find out details on both the city and county councils websites.”