Public urged to stay safe during warm half term weather

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is encouraging people to enjoy the half term break safely, as warm and dry spring weather is forecast across the county.

With schools breaking up today for the half term holiday, many families are expected to make the most of the warmer days by heading outdoors, visiting parks, walking in the countryside, camping, picnicking, or spending time near rivers, lakes, reservoirs and the coast.

While Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service wants everyone to enjoy the good weather, the Service is asking residents and visitors to take extra care, as dry conditions and higher temperatures can increase the risk of wildfires and water-related incidents.

Warm, dry weather can make moorland, grassland, parks, woodland and coastal areas more vulnerable to fire. Although some fires can start naturally, many are caused by human activity, often through carelessness or by people underestimating how quickly a small fire can spread.

People can help reduce the risk by avoiding disposable barbecues and not lighting fires on moors, in parks, on beaches or in other open spaces. Taking a picnic instead is a much safer way to enjoy the outdoors. Visitors are also asked to take litter home, as items such as glass bottles can contribute to fires, and to dispose of cigarettes safely. Anyone who sees smoke or flames should call 999 immediately and should not assume someone else has already reported it.

The Service is also reminding people to take extra care around water during the half term break. Warm weather can make rivers, lakes, reservoirs and the sea look inviting, but even strong swimmers can quickly get into difficulty. Cold water shock, strong currents, sudden changes in depth and hidden hazards beneath the surface can turn a day out into a life-threatening emergency.

People are urged to be especially cautious near open water, particularly as many people who drown never intended to enter the water in the first place. Anyone who has been drinking alcohol should avoid walking near water alone, and people should only swim in designated areas with lifeguards or as part of an organised group. At the beach, anyone caught in a rip current should swim parallel to the shore until they are clear of the current.

If someone is in trouble in the water, call 999 immediately. Ask for HM Coastguard at the coast or the fire service inland. Do not enter the water to attempt a rescue yourself, as this can put you in serious danger too.

Group Manager for Prevention, Liam Wilson, said: “Half term is a time when lots of families and young people will be getting outside and making the most of the good weather, and we want everyone to enjoy themselves.

“But warm, dry conditions can increase the risk of wildfires, and open water can be extremely dangerous even when the weather feels hot. We’ve seen first-hand how quickly a fun day out can turn into a serious incident.

“Taking a few moments to follow our safety advice can make all the difference. Please avoid lighting fires or using disposable barbecues in open spaces, take your litter home, and take extra care around water.

“By preventing avoidable incidents, you’re helping to protect yourself, your family, our countryside and our communities, while also helping our crews remain available for emergencies where they are needed most.”