As the summer months approach, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) has launched a new safety campaign called Getting Summer Ready. The aim of the campaign is to educate the community on the dangers of cold-water shock and hidden dangers in our waterways, as well as promoting safe cooking and barbequing practices.
Sarah Wilkinson, Head of Prevention, stated: "Our 'Getting Summer Ready' campaign aims to equip communities with essential tips to stay safe and enjoy the summer season. While the rising temperatures may lure us towards nearby waterways, it's crucial to understand the dangers of cold-water shock, which can be fatal.
With the Easter, public and summer holidays approaching, children are more likely to be at home, and cooking accidents can easily happen. That's why our cooking safety tips are designed to help prevent mishaps and ensure a stress-free experience in the kitchen. Additionally, we'll be sharing fun-filled activities that you can enjoy with your younger family members to keep them entertained during the holidays.”
“As we get ready for summer and anticipate warmer weather, our campaign will also emphasise essential tips to minimise the risk of fire before, during, and after barbecuing."
Water Safety Tips
Follow this basic advice to stay safe in and around water, whether it be the sea, a lake, a river or reservoir:
- Never swim alone in case you need help
- Don’t drink alcohol when undertaking water related activities, it impairs judgement and your ability to swim
- Avoid walking routes near water if you have been drinking alcohol
- Don’t dive or jumping straight into open water, this can cause potentially fatal cold water shock even on the warmest day
- Actively supervise children in and around water - drowning can happen fast and silently
- If you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, don’t panic, extend your arms and legs out and float on your back until the effect of cold water shock pass
- Never enter the water to try and rescue someone, call 999 and ask for the Fire Service if inland and the Coastguard if you are at the coast
If someone is in trouble in water, call 999. At the coast ask for the coastguard. If you are inland, ask for the fire service. You should never enter the water to attempt a rescue.
Cooking Safely Tips
There are several things you can do to avoid fires starting in the kitchen.
- Do not leave pans unattended. Stand by your pan. Take them off the heat if you have to leave the room
- Never leave a child unattended when cooking
- When you have finished cooking, ensure your oven, hob or air fryer is turned off
- Do not cook when tired or if you have had alcohol. Instead prepare a cold snack or treat yourself to a takeaway
- Keep the oven, hob and grill clean. A build up of fat and grease can easily catch fire
- Keep electrical leads, tea towels and clothes away from the cooking areas
Barbequing Safely Tips
Here we share a few tips which will reduce the risk of fire during or after cooking.
- Never leave the BBQ unattended
- Ensure the BBQ is on a flat site, well away from a shed, trees or shrubs
- Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area
- Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies
- Ensure the BBQ is cool before attempting to move it
Find out more top tips in Your Safety pages.