News and events

With temperatures across Lancashire expected to climb as high as 35°C this week, residents are being urged to take extra care, plan ahead, and look out for others during the hot weather. Hot weather can affect people quickly, so it is important to plan ahead and stay safe.

People are advised to avoid direct sun between 11am and 3pm when temperatures are at their highest, and to use sunscreen, wear a hat, and drink plenty of water throughout the day. Keeping homes cooler can also help, by closing blinds in sunny rooms and opening windows when it is cooler outside.

Those heading out are being asked to look after themselves and others, particularly those who may be more vulnerable in high temperatures. Drivers are reminded never to leave children or pets in parked vehicles, even for a short time.

Anyone who is unwell due to the heat and does not recover after cooling down should seek urgent medical attention by calling 999.

Wildfire and outdoor fire safety

With dry conditions increasing the risk of fire, people are being urged to take extra care outdoors and help prevent wildfires:

• Never use disposable barbecues on moorland or grassland. Please pack a picnic instead.

• Avoid smoking on moorland, and always extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials thoroughly.

• Do not throw cigarette butts out of car windows.

• Never leave bottles or glass behind, as sunlight can be magnified through glass and start fires. Please take all litter home with you.

These simple actions can significantly reduce the risk of fire spreading quickly in dry conditions.

Water safety

People are also being urged to take extreme care around open water during hot weather. While rivers, lakes and reservoirs may look inviting, they can be extremely dangerous.

The cold water temperature can claim your life in minutes, even if you are a strong swimmer. Alcohol and swimming do not mix, as both judgement and physical ability are affected. There is often no way of knowing what lies beneath the surface, including hidden hazards such as weeds, shopping trolleys, sharp metal or broken glass. In many locations, steep or slippery banks also mean there are no safe places to get out of the water.

If someone gets into difficulty, remember Float to Live: tilt your head back, relax, and float until you can regain control or call for help.

People are strongly encouraged to choose supervised swimming pools instead of open water.

Group Manager Liam Wilson said:

“Periods of extreme heat bring a number of serious risks, particularly around fire and water safety. We are asking people to take extra care when enjoying the outdoors, especially in dry conditions where fires can start and spread quickly. If you’re heading out to enjoy Lancashire, please pack a picnic and leave the bbq at home.

Open water can look very tempting in hot weather, but it remains dangerous all year round. We continue to see incidents where people underestimate the risks. Cold water shock can affect anyone, so we are urging people to choose safer, supervised swimming locations and to understand how quickly situations can change in open water.

Simple decisions can save lives whether that’s staying out of the sun during peak hours, checking on vulnerable neighbours, or making safer choices around water and fire.”

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service is also reminding people to take care of one another during the hot weather, especially those who may be most affected.

For more advice on staying safe during hot weather, visit: www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/safety/be-prepared/high-temperatures-and-heatwaves