As the summer holiday season approaches, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue has issued a fire safety warning to UK residents planning trips in caravans and holiday accommodations.
Despite recent mixed weather, fire officials are urging visitors and staycationers across the East Midlands to stay vigilant, particularly when using holiday lodges, static caravans, and temporary accommodations along the Lincolnshire coast.
“We know a lot of people from across the East Midlands will be spending time in Lincolnshire, especially in caravans, lodges, and apartments across our East coast,” said Dan Moss, Area Manager for Prevention and Protection at Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue.
‘Don’t Make Assumptions’ About Safety
Moss advised holidaymakers to prioritise fire safety immediately upon arrival.
“Before putting the kettle on, take a moment to assess your surroundings,” he said. “Check that smoke detectors are present and working. Identify windows that can serve as emergency exits and ensure escape routes are clear.”
He also recommended looking for fire extinguishers or fire blankets, verifying that they are within easy reach in case of an emergency.
“Fire safety is just as important on holiday as it is at home,” Moss added. “If you spot any issues, notify the accommodation owner straight away.”
Barbecues, Cigarettes, and Bonfires Pose High Risk
In recent holiday periods, Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue responded to several preventable fires, often caused by carelessly disposed cigarette ends, disposable barbecues, and unmanaged bonfires.
“Items like barbecues or cigarette butts must be fully extinguished and cooled before disposal,” Moss warned. “Even in cool weather, embers can remain dangerously hot and may ignite surrounding material.”
Windy weather can exacerbate risks, he noted, with bonfires easily spreading out of control if not properly supervised.
Litter Can Spark Fires
Moss also highlighted the risk posed by litter, particularly glass bottles and jars left in dry grass or vegetation. These items can magnify sunlight and start fires, especially during dry spells.
“Litter not only increases fire risk, it can also fuel fires once they start,” Moss said.
Strain on Emergency Services
The fire service emphasised that preventable incidents tie up valuable emergency response resources.
“Ultimately, when we’re called out to these avoidable fires, it ties up our resources that may be needed urgently elsewhere,” Moss concluded.
Lincolnshire Fire and Rescue is encouraging all travellers to remain cautious and report any fire hazards promptly, in an effort to ensure a safe and incident-free summer.
