Recreation

When you want to relax, the last thing you’re probably thinking of is safety. Especially when you’re outdoors, or away from home. But that’s when accidents can easily happen, in particular if you’re in unfamiliar surroundings.

Fire safety doesn’t stop when you leave your home. Carelessness outdoors can have fatal results, and fires can also destroy huge areas of countryside.

Leisure activities such as barbecues, camping and caravanning should be relaxing and enjoyable experiences. But it is important to stay alert to the fire hazards that they pose.

These activities are most popular during the warmer months - when dry ground adds to the dangers - but care should be taken at all times of the year.

This section covers what to watch out for when outdoors, and what steps you can take if there’s a fire.