With warmer weather drawing more individuals outdoors for the summer season, the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) is prompting members of the public to stay alert and follow straightforward safety guidelines to keep themselves and their families secure.

Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service Group Commander David Shortt said: "Summer is a time to enjoy the outdoors, but it also brings increased risks, particularly during periods of warm and dry weather. If you are planning to enjoy a swim, visit your caravan or mobile home, or host a barbecue, we are asking everyone to take simple precautions to help prevent avoidable emergencies.

"Jumping into a body of water may look inviting to cool down but it can be dangerously cold and unpredictable. You can get 'cold water shock' which hinders your ability to swim. Always ensure you have a safety plan before entering the water and stick to lifeguarded beaches.

"Whether you're having a barbecue at home or at a designated picnic area, ensure it's set up well away from flammable materials. Remember to never leave it unattended and ensure it's fully extinguished after use, especially disposable barbecues.

"Fires in our countryside do happen and can almost always be prevented. Dry conditions can allow fire to spread quickly putting lives, wildlife and property at risk. You should avoid lighting open fires and only barbecue in designated areas. Always dispose of cigarettes properly and never throw them on the ground or out of car windows."

"If you're visiting a caravan or mobile home, make sure all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are working, and only smoke outside to minimise any risks.

"If you spot a fire or see someone in danger, call 999."

The NIFRS has highlighted essential guidance across several key areas:

Barbecue and Fire Pit

• Make sure your barbeque site is flat, away from fences, trees and shrubs.

• Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby in case of emergencies.

• Never use petrol or paraffin to start or revive your barbeque.

• Keep children, pets and garden games away from the cooking area.

• Make sure the barbeque is cool before disposing of it.

• Remember, alcohol consumption increases the risk of accidents occurring. Boat

• Fit a smoke alarm and test it each time you board.

• Make a fire action plan and ensure everyone on board is aware of what to do if there is a fire.

• Fit a fire extinguisher in the engine compartment and the cockpit locker.

• Fit a carbon monoxide detector in living spaces.

• Ensure furnishings, foam and insulation are fire retardant.

Camping

• Keep a torch handy. Never light a candle or have any kind of flame burning apparatus in or near to a tent.

• Always cook outside and well away from your tent, don't cook near flammable materials or long grass.

• Never smoke inside a tent.

• Make sure everyone knows what to do if their clothes catch fire – stop, drop to the floor and roll to put out the flames.

Caravan and Mobile Home

• Park caravans and mobile homes at least 6 metres apart.

• Make a fire escape plan.

• If there's a fire – get out, stay out and call the Fire & Rescue Service immediately.

• Fit a smoke alarm and test it once a week.

• Consider getting a fire extinguisher and a fire blanket, and know how to use them properly.

• Fit a carbon monoxide detector and keep air vents clear.

• Smoking inside can be dangerous so smoke outside.

Water

• In the summer head to a lifeguarded beach, and swim between the red and yellow flags.

• There may be hidden currents or hidden debris under the surface that you could get caught or tangled in.

• Go with others and look out for each other. While you're in make sure you have someone watching you and that they have a way to call for help.

• Wear a flotation device.

• If you see someone in difficulty in the water

- CALL for help, preferably a lifeguard if nearby. Alternatively ring 999.

- TELL them to float on their back

- THROW them something that floats

Wildfires

• Don't throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.

• Don't leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland.

• Only use barbeques in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended.

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

• If you see a fire in the countryside, report it to NIFRS immediately on 999.