FIRE crews are advising people in the Dartford and Gravesend area about how they can help to prevent outdoor fires this summer.
The summer safety advice follows a huge increase in countryside call outs – up two thirds on last year.
In the last six weeks, Kent Fire and Rescue Service has been called to 93 outdoor, rubbish or grassland fires.
Fires include unattended bonfires, fires in rubbish bins and blazes sparked by carelessly discarded cigarettes.
Dartford crew manager, Richard Cromarty, said: “Whether started accidentally or deliberately, these fires can be extremely dangerous and unpredictable.
“They tie up valuable resources that could be needed elsewhere.”
Get free summer safety advice or tips by visiting www.kent.fire-uk.org or phoning 0800 923 7000.
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