Londoners are being warned by firefighters to spend the next few days safely as an intense period of heat hits the capital.
Temperatures are expected to reach the high thirties and as people choose to head outdoors, the risk around wildfires and water safety grows.
Despite heavy rain and thunderstorms overnight, an assessment by the Natural Hazards Partnership has concluded there continues to be an elevated risk of wildfires in the capital so Londoners must do all they can to prevent fires starting in the first place.
London Fire Brigade Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: “London is already in the midst of its second heatwave of the year and we know that the public will want enjoy this exceptionally hot weather.
“However, it is important that this is done safely as during periods of dry and sustained extreme heat, the chance of wildfires spreading rapidly is high. The Brigade is ready and prepared to respond to all types of incidents but we urge everyone to play their part to prevent incidents, such as wildfires, which can be time-consuming to resolve and have devastating impacts on livelihoods, occurring in the first place.”
If you’re planning to enjoy the weather over the coming days either in a park or other open spaces, please don’t take a disposable BBQ with you. They pose a significant fire risk as the heat can be retained for many hours, even after a barbecue has been put out. It’s also important to make sure that smoking materials are discarded of properly and either dispose of your rubbish in the appropriate bins or take it home with you if none are available.
For those having a BBQ at home, avoid doing so on a balcony and ensure your BBQ is away from flammable materials like fences and sheds. You should also avoid setting up your BBQ on any decking you may have in your garden.
The safety of people around water is also a high priority for the Brigade. In particular, firefighters are urging parents, guardians and teachers to speak to children about the dangers of open water. The call for action follows the concerning number of accidental drownings, many involving children, that occurred across the UK during the last heatwave.
Assistant Commissioner Goulbourne said: “We know that this very hot spell of weather will tempt people to cool off in rivers, reservoirs and lakes, but even in hot weather most inland water in London remains below 16°C, which can cause cold water shock and lead to drowning.
“Many Londoners, including parents, are not aware that despite its calm surface, open water can have strong currents, hidden debris, slippery edges, and sudden drops in depth - all of which could prove fatal.
“Despite a calm surface, open water can have strong currents, hidden debris, slippery edges, and sudden drops in depth - all of which can be fatal.
“If you are planning to swim outdoors, only do so in designated areas, and ensure that lifeguards and safety equipment are present.
“If you see someone else in difficulty, don’t enter the water yourself. Call 999 and try to throw them something that floats.”
What to do if you find yourself in trouble in water
- Rather than struggling, 'float to live'.
- Tilt your head back with your ears submerged and gently move your hands to help you stay afloat.
- Spread your arms and legs out – it's OK if your legs sink.
- Once your breathing is under control, call for help or swim to safety.