Fire service issues urgent plea after busiest month for emergency calls in a decade
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has revealed that July was its busiest month for emergency calls in the last 10 years, with crews responding to record demand during the recent spell of hot, dry weather.
More than 5,300 emergency calls were received over the month, making it the busiest July in a decade. Firefighters attended hundreds of fires, with outdoor blazes accounting for the majority of incidents as dry conditions increased the risk of vegetation catching alight.
With the countryside remaining extremely dry, the fire service is urging people to help prevent further incidents by avoiding barbecues and open fires in parks, woodland and other open spaces. Instead, residents are being encouraged to swap a barbecue for a picnic and to follow any local restrictions that may be in place.
The service is also reminding the public to dial 999 only in a genuine emergency, as unnecessary calls can delay firefighters from reaching people who need urgent assistance.
Fire crews and Control Room staff continue to work around the clock to protect communities across Devon and Somerset, and officials say everyone can play a part in reducing the risk of wildfires by taking extra care while enjoying the outdoors during the warm weather.
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Photographs © Wayne Perry / Plymouth Post