Firefighters are urging the public not to have disposable BBQs in the open or take risks near the water during the hot weather this Bank Holiday weekend.
With temperatures set to soar to over 26°C across the North East over the long weekend (May 22 to 25, 2026), County Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service (CDDFRS) has warned that careless actions can have serious consequences, putting lives and property at risk.
Last year (2025), CDDFRS firefighters spent more than 156 hours tackling three large wildfires.
Meanwhile, NFCC National Resilience data shows more than 270 wildfires have already been recorded in England and Wales during 2026, following a record year in 2025 when services responded to more than 1,000 wildfires.
CDDFRS is urging people to pack a picnic, not a BBQ, during the hot and dry conditions to reduce the chance of wildfires from breaking out.
Station Manager Kevin Bell said: “Wildfires can put lives at risk and have devastating consequences on the landscape.
“Fire can spread quickly in dry, warm, and windy conditions like what we are expected to have this Bank Holiday weekend.
“That’s why we are urging people to please pack a picnic, not a BBQ, to reduce the risk of accidental fires from breaking out.
“We’re also asking people to take home any rubbish home with them as reflective items like glass bottles can also start a fire.
“If you do see a possible wildfire, call 999 immediately and ask for the fire and rescue service.
“You can use apps like what3words or any landmarks to help provide a precise location for our crews.”
CDDFRS is also urging people not to risk cooling off in our lakes, rivers, or reservoirs if they are planning to enjoy the good weather at one of the North East’s water spots.
The Service has stressed that the water can be extremely cold, even on the hottest of days, and jumping in could cause Cold Water Shock which affects your breathing and movement.
There could also be hidden dangers lurking beneath the surface such as strong currents which can pull even the most experienced swimmers under the water.
Station Manager Kevin Bell said: “If you do find yourself in difficulty in the water, float on your back.
“Tilt your head back with your ears under the water and use your hands to help you stay afloat.
“When you are floating, call for help or try to steer with your arms towards shore.”
If you see someone in difficulty in the water, CDDFRS said people should remember: ‘Phone, Float, Throw.’
Phone 999 and ask for the fire service, tell the person in the water to float on their back and throw them something that floats such as a throw bag, if nearby.
If they are attached to a rope, make sure you hold the end so you can pull the person in.
CDDFRS has issued the following advice to help the public stay safe this summer and reduce the risk of wildfires:
• Pack a picnic instead of a BBQ.
• Do not start fires in the countryside. This includes campfires and BBQs.
• Take your litter home.
• If you see a possible wildfire, get to a place of safety immediately and then call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.
• Never leave a lit barbecue unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished before disposing of it.
Caption: Firefighters enjoy a picnic as they urge people not to have a disposable BBQ in the open.
