Extreme heat in Bucks: almost 200% increase in calls about fires in the open

Bucks fire services revealed that since 1 July, firefighters were called to 412 fires in the open in Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes.

Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service says their data (external) shows there has been a 196% increase in calls about fires in the open, compared with the average total for the same period over the previous three years. 

Area Commander for Response and Resilience, Paul Scanes, also said that for the same period (1st July to August 11th) they have experienced a 68 per cent rise in total calls to their control room, as well as a 42 per cent increase in incidents attended.

In regards to the 412 outdoor fire incidences since July 1st, the service say only a small number have required larger-scale responses, with most being smaller fires where one or two crews acted quickly with 'excellent intervention to prevent them spreading and causing greater damage'.

Reflecting on the increases in calls and incidents, Paul Scanes said: 

“Understandably, our teams have been stretched by this significant increase in demand; however, we have maintained our usual emergency response capability and, on average, have continued to meet our Service 10-minute response standard.

“We have also been working effectively with our neighbouring fire and rescue services through established mutual aid arrangements. This collaboration helps ensure we can continue to deliver the service our communities expect and deserve.

“I would like to recognise the tremendous efforts of our firefighters and control room operators who continue to work incredibly hard throughout these challenging extreme weather conditions, firefighting, carrying out rescues, and responding to all our emergency calls.

“Our people are our most important asset. We recognise the physical demands that periods of extreme heat can place on firefighters and other staff, particularly when dealing with incidents in full personal protective equipment.

“That’s why we place a strong emphasis on welfare, ensuring our teams have access to the equipment, support and guidance they need to stay safe, hydrated, and well, while continuing to provide an excellent service to our communities.”

The service are also reminding residents of the simple steps they can take to help reduce the risk of fires and protect valuable emergency resources. This includes avoiding the use of disposable barbecues, lighting bonfires, setting off fireworks, releasing sky lanterns, discarding cigarettes, matches, or smoking materials onto the ground and leaving litter behind, particularly glass bottles.

Paul Scanes added:

“We’re asking people to think carefully about their activities while these dry conditions continue. Seemingly harmless actions, such as using a disposable barbecue, lighting a bonfire, setting off fireworks or releasing a sky lantern, can quickly lead to a fire that threatens people, property, wildlife, and our countryside.

“Every fire we attend requires resources to bring it under control, including significant amounts of water. With water supplies already under pressure in many areas, preventing fires before they start is more important than ever.

“By taking a few simple precautions, everyone can help keep Buckinghamshire safe while helping us protect precious resources for the future.”