FIRE fighters are urging Worcestershire residents to watch out for fire hazards as they make the most of the weather and enjoy the great outdoors, whether camping, cooking or exploring.

Station Commander Alan Haley of Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said “A long hot summer is what we hope for; however, like many changes in activity, it can bring risks.

If you’re intending to take out your tent, ready your rucksack or get your caravan back on the road, you should go armed with some safety advice before heading for the great outdoors”.

"By following the Fire Kills campaign’s top tips you can ensure that your great adventure is a safe and enjoyable one”.

If you're out camping, allow at least six metres between tents and caravans and ensure they are away from parked cars to reduce the risk of fire spreading.

Never use candles in or near a tent - torches are safer, and keep cooking appliances away from the tent walls.

Never cook inside a small tent or near flammable materials or long grass; they can all set alight easily.

Make sure you know how to escape by cutting your way out of the tent if there’s a fire, and make sure everyone knows how to put out clothing that’s on fire – stop, drop and roll. Don’t smoke inside tents.

Caravanners should fit and test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, take special care when cooking and don’t leave pans unattended, and turn off all appliances before going out or to bed.

Make sure ashtrays are made of a material that can’t burn or topple over –never smoke in bed. Don’t dry clothes over the stove.

Remove any litter and rubbish near the caravan to reduce the risk of fire spreading. Make sure the caravan is ventilated, and never block air vents, to avoid a build-up of poisonous gases.

Station Commander Haley said: “It may all sound a bit daunting but it needn’t be, most of this advice is common sense. From time to time we all need reminders; so enjoy the countryside and your recreation and be safe.”