Enjoy the Countryside Safely This Summer

With warm, dry weather continuing, many of us will be spending time outdoors enjoying the countryside. While the sunshine is welcome, dry conditions mean fires can start and spread very quickly, threatening people, wildlife, crops, livestock and rural businesses.

When visiting the countryside

Please help protect our rural areas by following these fire safety tips:

·  Take your litter home or put it in a bin. Glass bottles and food packets can increase a fire starting by reflecting the sunlight.

·  Pack a picnic instead of using a disposable BBQ.

·  Fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of them safely.

·  Never throw cigarette ends from vehicles – grass verges are incredibly dry right now. 

·  Report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999.

By taking these precautions, we can all help protect the countryside and support our farming communities during the busy harvest season.

A Reminder for Farmers: Harvest Fire Safety

Harvest is a demanding period, with long hours, increased machinery use and dry conditions significantly increasing the risk of fire.

Taking a few minutes each day to review key fire risks can help prevent disruption, protect livelihoods and keep everyone safe.

✅ Daily Harvest Fire Safety Checks

·  Ensure machinery is clean, well-maintained and regularly inspected.

·  Remove dust, oil and crop debris to prevent overheating and ignition.

·  Identify and address signs of faults, hot bearings or overheating early.

·  Ensure hay and straw are adequately dried before storage to reduce the risk of spontaneous combustion.

·  Store fuel, chemicals, fertilisers and other hazardous materials safely and securely, away from ignition sources.

·  Keep fire extinguishers readily available and regularly checked.

·  Make sure everyone on site knows emergency procedures, evacuation arrangements and escape routes.

·  Ensure workers, particularly those working alone, can quickly contact emergency services and share their location.

·  Use what3words app to help emergency responders locate incidents quickly.

·  Stay vigilant for signs of trespass or arson, particularly where crops, machinery or bale stacks are accessible from public areas.

If a Fire Occurs

·  Call 999 immediately.

·  Use what3wordsapp to provide an accurate location.

·  Evacuate people and livestock if it is safe to do so.

·  Be prepared to direct emergency services to site access points, water supplies and any hazards.

👉 Farm fire safety guidance:
https://humbersidefire.gov.uk/your-safety/business-safety/fire-safety-on-the-farm

Thank you for helping keep our countryside, communities and farms safe this summer.