Hot Weather Keeps Local Fire Service Busy

THAME’S fire officers have been kept very busy during the recent spell of hot, dry weather.
Several grass fires near the motorway, possibly caused by the careless disposal of cigarette ends from vehicle windows, and a garden fence fire in the town have quickly been extinguished and prevented from spreading by the service’s prompt action.
The potentially most serious incident, on Wednesday, at arount 6.45pm, involved two pumps from Thame and one from Wheatley, when a light fitting above an office desk at Purite, in Bandit Way, Thame, melted and set fire to an office desk and computer.
Although the fire was quickly extinguished, thick, toxic smoke from burning plastics filled the building, which needed to be ventilated for several hours using power pumps.
Smoke damage to the property was considerable but the one office worker in the building vacated it very quickly and was unharmed.

NB The following advice about the use of Barbecues, was issued by Chris Wilson, Station Officer at Oxford City Fire Station, following a couple of incidents last weekend:

Oxford Station Manager Chris Wilson said ‘It is extremely important at
this time of year to make sure all barbecue equipment is working properly before it is used and that all residents are aware of the dangers of using gas and charcoal barbecues especially after long periods of non-use over winter and spring.

* Check all equipment for signs of perishing or damage

* Keep barbecues away from flammable areas such as fences,
awnings and the house

* only use just enough lighting fluid/firelighters for getting
started

* NEVER add flammable fluid to a lit barbecue

* Keep a hose or water supply handy for dousing hot spots

* NEVER allow children to use the barbecue

* Avoid drinking alcohol whilst using your barbecue

Always dial 999 for the Fire Service immediately, if anything goes
wrong.

Keep away from fire & enjoy your Summer safely.