Temperatures are expected to rise even higher over the coming days with sizzling hot weather forecast to be 30 degrees and above. As the mercury rises, firefighters are reminding anyone thinking of taking a dip to cool off to think carefully before they take the plunge.
The Brigade is warning about the risks of swimming in London’s waterways in case swimmers get into difficulty. The advice comes as sadly one teenage boy lost his life at Fairlop Waters in Ilford in the past week, where firefighters from the Brigade were part of the rescue search for him. Sadly, there were nine accidental drownings in London last year, making it the joint third highest in the UK, despite not having a coastline.
Charlie Pugsley, Assistant Commissioner for Fire Safety at London Fire Brigade said: “No matter how hot things get, the Brigade is reminding people to think carefully before diving into water. Sadly, crews were called to nine incidents in the past year where someone died due to accidental drowning.
“With a sizzling six week long school holiday ahead we want people to enjoy their summer by swimming in designated safe swimming areas while also warning people about just how easy it is to get into difficulty.
“There is the risk of cold water shock, which can cause your body to go into shock no matter how fit you are. It causes panic, anxiety, disorientation and loss of muscular control, which cause you to gasp for air and as a result, inhale water. Rather than struggling, follow the RNLI advice and 'float to live'.
“We would also urge people never to drink alcohol and then go swimming or attempt to jump into water. Avoid walking or running near water on your own or late at night as it’s easier than you think to slip and fall in.
“We’re not here to spoil anyone’s fun – but there is a very real risk when it comes to London’s canals, waterways and the Thames.”
For tips on water safety and how to help if there’s someone struggling in water follow our water safety guide.
With the sizzling hot weather fire crews have also been very busy attending grass fires. Some of the blazes attended by crews include a fire covering five acres of long grass at a country park in Barkingside. Another fire was at marsh and scrubland in Erith, with a third blaze at a recreation ground in Slade Green, and there was also fires on Mitcham Common and in Hornchurch.
Assistant Commissioner Pugsley continued: "The recent dry weather has made the ground extremely dry, which unfortunately means grassland and parks will burn quickly when exposed to even the smallest of sparks.
“Common causes of grass fires include carelessly discarded cigarettes or matches as well as rubbish left lying around such as glass bottles, which can start flames by magnifying the sun’s rays.
“Every one of us can help reduce the risk of fire and keep our communities clean, make sure rubbish is safely thrown away and cigarettes are always properly disposed of.
“If you see a grass fire, don't attempt to put it out yourself as grass fires can travel very quickly and change direction without warning. If you see signs of smouldering grass then call the Brigade and let us know where the fire is.”
Barbecues are a popular choice in hot weather but firefighters are warning Londoners to never use a disposable one on dry grass or be tempted to have one on a balcony.
Assistant Commissioner Pugsley said: “Everyone loves a sizzling sausage on the barbie but please ensure we don’t turn up uninvited in an emergency. A soggy sausage will be the least of your problems if we have to put a blaze out that can easily spread to neighbouring properties.
“Barbecues on balconies are an accident waiting to happen. We urge people to never consider this as a cooking option. Equally, think about where an outdoor disposable barbecue is placed. When everyone has packed up and gone home it’s not unheard of for us to be called and the fire goes on to destroy a huge area.”