WITH the current spate of very dry weather, the risk of grass fires is increased.

Some fires are accidental. For instance, a cigarette thrown from a car window can easily ignite a dry grass verge and broken glass can concentrate the sun’s rays onto dry shrubbery, causing a fire.

Sadly, most fires are started deliberately, but however they start, they can cause huge damage to property and kill wildlife. It also means our fire crews are unable to attend any other emergency calls while they are dealing with them. 

Grass fires are not only extremely dangerous, but the consequences are costly and disruptive for the whole community. People should be extra careful when visiting countryside and open spaces in Wyre Forest.

If you see a grass fire, don’t attempt to put it out yourself as grass fires can travel very quickly and change direction without warning. Call the Fire and Rescue Service and tell them where the fire is.

Other good advice is never to leave camp fires or barbecues unattended and extinguish them properly after use.  After enjoying a picnic, don’t forget to take your rubbish home, including any glass and always dispose of cigarette ends safely.  It’s really important to explain the dangers of playing with fire to children.

Colin the Firestarter is an animated character who features on his own interactive website, which was developed by Wyre Forest District Council and Hereford and Worcester Fire & Rescue Service, with funding from our community safety partnership.

The aim of the website is to prevent deliberate fires by educating young people about the consequences of starting fires and making hoax calls.

Colin the Firestarter can be viewed at hwfire.org.uk and then clicking on Young People.

You may be starting to think of the long summer holidays and how you will keep the kids occupied.

Don’t forget Wyre Forest District Council’s Summer Activities Programme which is packed with lots of great things to do to keep them happy.

This year you will be able to book online from the June 2 on wyreforestdc.gov.uk/summer and by telephone from June 27 on 01562 732984.

Brochures will be available from June 6 and distributed to schools from June 13.

Carnival time is just around the corner, so please come and see us at Bewdley Carnival on June 11 and Kidderminster Carnival on June 18.

HELEN DYKE Chairman