A FIRE service is issuing safety advice, as fire crews have attended a number of incidents involving fires in the open in the last week.

Station Commander at Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service Steve Andrews said:

"We have been experiencing some dry, warm weather and it is only natural to want to go outdoors and enjoy it with family and friends but it is also important to stay fire aware."

He continued "With the hot weather set to continue, we are asking the public to be vigilant and by following these few simple steps we can all help to reduce the chance of a wildfire."

Extinguish cigarettes properly, don't throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.

Take your rubbish with you, especially glass bottles, which can magnify the sun's rays and start a fire as well as hurt people and animals.

Avoid open fires in the countryside. Always have them in safe designated areas.

If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately to the Fire and Rescue Service. Early detection can prevent it from developing into a large wildfire incident.

Don't attempt to tackle fires that can't be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.

Landowners and Land Managers are also advised, where possible, to ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained with any cut grasses and vegetation removed from the site.