Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service

In case you hadn’t noticed…it’s a teeny bit warm out there ☀️

As the heatwave continues we’ve put some top tips together on our website, with a few simple for staying safe and looking out for others. Link in the comments below 👇🏻

Hot weather can increase risks at home, outdoors and around open water, so it’s important to take care and plan ahead.

With Year 11 and Year 13 students recently finishing their exams (congratulations), we know many young people are spending more time outside with friends, especially around water. Sadly, younger people are more at risk of water-related incidents, so please share this with anyone who’s just started their summer.

Key reminders:

🌡️ Stay hydrated and take breaks in the shade
🌊 Take extra care near open water
🔥 Be responsible with BBQs and anything that could start a fire
👵 Check in on vulnerable friends, family and neighbours

A director of a Plymouth-based company has been given an 18-month community order for fire safety failures that placed residents of a Plymouth high-rise building at risk of death or serious injury.

The sentencing follows a four-year investigation by Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service into fire safety failings at Latitude 52 in Albert Road, Plymouth.

More information is on our website https://orlo.uk/bkfTb

A red heat-health alert has been issued for the South West for the first time since July 2022.

Cooling off in the water might seem like the perfect way to escape the heat, but it's important to be aware of the risks.

Whether you're planning to swim, paddle, or simply spend time near the water, it is important to understand water safety, even if you are planning on staying dry the whole time.

There is lots of good advice for staying safe around our coast and rivers, lakes, and canals on our website- https://www.dsfire.gov.uk/safety/outdoors/water-safety

🔴⚠️ A Red Heat-Health Alert has been issued across the Midlands and southern England until 25 June. This is the highest level of alert and indicates a risk to everyone's health, not just vulnerable groups. Northern England is under an Amber alert.
For further information, visit the data dashboard:
🔗 https://ukhsa-dashboard.data.gov.uk/weather-health-alerts/heat?type=heat

We’re lucky to be surrounded by some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes 🌿☀️

With sunny and warm weather forecast this weekend, please consider packing a picnic instead of lighting a BBQ when you're out enjoying the countryside.

Picnics are safer, easier, and help protect our communities, wildlife, and natural habitats. A small spark can quickly turn into a devastating wildfire, putting people, animals, and our crews at risk.

These photos show how disposable BBQs can ignite the ground around them and cause outdoor fires 🧺🌳🔥