Beat The Heat

Photo copyright Rik Wright

The following resources were issued in the Local Government Bulletin in response to recent hot weather with respect to water safety and reducing the risk of wildfires

Water safety and drowning prevention resources

There are a range of resources below sharing key information with parents and carers on water safety, and to help prevent drowning cases.

To support stakeholders with their hot weather communications, the UK Health Security Agency has recently updated its communications toolkit for 2026. The material in the toolkit is intended to provide basic health information which can be communicated during hot spells. This year includes some new messaging on staying safe from direct sun.

Webinar:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GmiOVaSbnEc

Toolkits:
https://rnli.org/safety/float/float-resources

https://www.respectthewater.com/campaigns-resources/phone-float-throw

https://drive.google.com/drive/u/1/folders/1qUzIyggxLlHNampMU089P4R-sTBZSr6u

Resources:
https://www.rlss.org.uk/Listing/Category/summer-water-safety

https://www.rlss.org.uk/listing/category/the-water-safety-code

https://nationalwatersafety.org.uk/strategy

https://capt.org.uk/drowning/

https://www.redcross.org.uk/stories/health-and-social-care/first-aid/five-things-to-know-about-drowning-in-open-water

https://rnli.org/safety/respect-the-water

Stay safe this summer – reduce the risk of wildfires

On 1 May, MCHLG published a blog on reducing the risk of wildfires.

Most wildfires in the UK are caused by human activity. Every year, wildfires destroy large areas of countryside and wildlife habitats, causing long‑lasting damage to the environment. Wildfires can spread quickly and threaten homes and infrastructure, particularly during warm, dry weather. As the weather warms up, the risk of wildfires can rise.

MHCLG’s advice focuses on preventing fires before they start and knowing exactly what to do if an individual spots one.

How to prevent wildfires – are you reducing risks outdoors?

· Do not light fires in the countryside or other open spaces, including parks, moorland and wooded areas.

· Only use barbecues in designated areas where they are permitted.

· Never leave a hot barbecue unattended. Ensure your barbecue is fully put out and make sure ashes are cold before disposing of it.

· Ensure smoking materials are fully stubbed out and disposed of carefully. Never throw cigarette ends from vehicles.

· Take all rubbish home with you, especially glass bottles, which can focus the sun’s rays and start a fire.

· Follow local guidance and signage, particularly during periods of heightened wildfire risk when access restrictions may be in place.

Act fast: have you spotted a fire outdoors?

· Move to a safe location away from the fire.

· Call 999 immediately, do not assume someone else has already reported it.

· Use the Ordnance Survey app or what3words to give an accurate location.

· Wait at a safe, agreed location if requested and provide emergency services with further details.

· Do not attempt to tackle the fire yourself.

· Do not travel to the area of a wildfire, as this may slow the emergency response.

· Always follow the advice of emergency services and local authorities, including any instruction to evacuate or stay indoors with windows closed.