North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and North Wales Police are appealing to everyone to enjoy the warm weather safely following the issuing of an Amber warning for extreme heat in the region.

Paul Kay, Head of Fire Safety at North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said:

“With the current hot and dry weather conditions, even a small spark can quickly develop into a rapidly spreading fire. We encourage everyone to take simple precautions to help keep our communities safe. Grass fires can start within seconds, and barbecues that are not used responsibly can easily become a fire risk. By remaining vigilant, disposing of cigarettes safely, and only using barbecues in appropriate locations, you can play an important role in preventing avoidable fires and protecting those around you.

“While open water may appear tempting during warm weather, I’m urging people to avoid swimming in lakes, canals, and other unsupervised bodies of water, as hidden hazards can pose serious risks.

“It is especially important for parents and guardians to talk to their children about the dangers of open water. Teenagers in particular may be more likely to venture out with friends and underestimate the risks involved in using open water to cool down, which can have serious and potentially tragic consequences.

“Help keep yourself and other safe and well by checking out the latest advice from our partners at Public Health Wales – together we can help protect our communities.”

Superintendent Simon Barrasford of North Wales Police added: “We appreciate the weather is warm and the forecast for this week expects temperatures to rise further, and it can be very tempting to jump into quarry pools as well as rivers and lakes to cool down on a hot day.

“However, open water can contain hidden hazards such as debris, weeds, and reeds that you may not be able to see from the surface.

“The water can also be very deep, and swimmers can easily find themselves out of their depth. If you are thinking about going swimming in open water, please think again and consider the dangers.

“We urge you to look out for your friends, avoid swimming or jumping into open water and plan how else you can cool off safely.”

Here are Paul’s top tips:

Reduce fire risks 🔥

Hot weather increases the risk of wildfires and BBQ-related incidents:

• Avoid lighting fires in open spaces, including disposable BBQs.
• Never leave BBQs unattended and keep them away from fences/trees.
• Dispose of cigarettes safely.

Stay safe around water 🌊

Water can still be dangerously cold despite hot weather – if you plan to spend time in and around water to cool down, never jump in to reduce the risk of cold water shock.

• If you get into trouble in the water, remember 'Float to Live'.
• If you see someone in difficulty, never enter the water yourself.

Remember - Phone Float Throw -

• Phone 999 to get help
• Tell the person in the water to stay calm and float on their back,
• Throw rescue equipment to help them until the emergency services arrive.