VISITORS to country parks and open spaces are being reminded to play their part in keeping everyone safe as temperatures soar.
Staffordshire County Council is urging people not to consider lighting fires or barbecues due to the increased risk of grass and heathland wildfires.
It follows a fire which destroyed three acres of habitat at Gentleshaw Common.
Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for communities and culture, Cllr Hayley Coles, said:
“With temperatures set to rise towards the end of the week we want people to be able to go out and enjoy some great weather safely in our country parks and open spaces.
“We want to remind people that barbecues and open fires are not permitted at any time, and with warmer temperatures and dry grass, ignoring this presents a heightened safety risk.
“Grass and heathland fires can be devastating – endangering lives and causing huge and lasting environmental damage.
“We have some wonderful spots for summer picnics across Staffordshire and we can all play a part in protecting them by being responsible when we’re out and about this weekend and over the summer.”
