Fire, barbecue and litter warning at district's parks ahead of weekend heatwave

Barbecues and campfires lit in parks create an unnecessary fire risk which damages the countryside and wildlife and puts the emergency services under extra strain.

Additionally, people are urged to take their litter home, to avoid resources being spent on clear ups, that are funded by money from Council tax payers.

Coun Maureen Cummings, cabinet member for environment, communities and poverty at Wakefield Council, said: "I completely understand people wanting to enjoy the sunny and warm weather during the summer holidays, especially as we have all been in lockdown for so long.

“With our parks and green spaces expected to be busy once again over the next few days, it is everyone's responsibility to make sure they are a clean and welcoming place for all to enjoy. We are working hard to empty the bins as often as we can, but if they are full please take your rubbish home. There is no excuse for littering.

“We also need to support our emergency services and avoid problems being caused by people either being careless, having campfires or barbecues - against advice, or deliberately setting woodland alight. This is never acceptable behaviour.”

With high temperatures forecast, it is tempting to cool off by taking a dip but residents are being warned about the dangers of swimming in open water.

Hidden dangers can lurk beneath the surface of ponds, lakes and flooded quarries, such as discarded waste which can trap people, as well as slippery rocks and sudden changes in water depth.

Cllr Cummings added: "Please don’t be tempted to cool off in open water, as you are risking your own life and the lives of others. The water can become dangerously cold when it gets deeper and you never know what's under the water such as tangles of weeds and rubbish, which raises the risk of drowning or of suffering a severe injury.

"Please don't take a dip. It cannot be worth putting lives at risk. Keep away from open water and stay safe."