Huge Increase In Out-Of-Control Outdoor Fires In East Sussex

There's been a big increase in out-of-control fires reported in East Sussex's open spaces, compared to this time last year.

During the first two weeks of April, firefighters have attended 48 fires in the open ranging from chiminea fires (outdoor burners with chimneys) through to discarded barbecues. 

Fires in the open have increased by 50% from last year and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service officers believe this could be due to the lifting of lockdown restrictions, and more people wanting to enjoy socially distanced activities which must take place outside. 

In West Sussex, the county council (which runs that county's fire and rescue service) said it hadn't seen quite the same increase, but firefighters were anxious to get safety messages out, to help prevent blazes in open spaces.

Concerns are growing that, as lockdown restrictions ease, more people will naturally want to take this opportunity to meet-up outside, staying within coronavirus regulations — but also trying to keep warm.

We have entered another dry spell, in which conditions can mean that fires start very easily.

Across the UK, firefighters said, 1,700 farm buildings and 66,000 acres of grassland are destroyed by fire.

Fire and Rescue service staff listed these guidelines for staying safe while making and using fires in open spaces.

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.
• Sunlight shining through glass can start large fires - take glass bottles/jars home or put them in a waste or recycling bin.
• Keep young children and ball games away from barbecues.
• Extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly.
• Only use barbecues in suitable and safe areas and never leave them unattended.
• Ensure that your barbecue is fully extinguished and cold before disposing of the contents.
• Obey safety signs.
• Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows - they can ruin whole fields of crops. 

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service added:

"We can completely understand people wanting to get out and make the most of their time together.

"But we would just ask that you take extra care, as fire can take hold and get out of control very quickly.

"Please don't barbecue in the countryside and if you're barbequing at home, always keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby for emergencies.

"Never leave a barbecue unattended and ensure it is well away from sheds, fences, trees, shrubs or garden waste.

"Don't use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbecue; use only recognised lighters or starter fuels on cold coals.

"Please think twice before disposing of your BBQ.

"Single use BBQs are designed to get extremely hot very rapidly, and they take a long time to cool down.

"Make sure it is extinguished fully and completely cool before taking it anywhere near a bin full of rubbish.

"To avoid starting a fire you should allow it to cool for several hours and even then make sure you pour lots of water over it to make sure it is out before putting it in the bin."