Oxfordshire fire service receiving high number of 999 calls

Thames Valley Fire Control Service has been dealing with an influx of 999 calls concerning bonfires, barbecues, and other fire hazards, urging people to contact them only in genuine emergencies.

A spokesman for Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue said: “While conditions remain dry and our fire crews continue to respond to outdoor fires across Oxfordshire, we understand people may be concerned about the risk of fire.”

The service is urging the public to follow fire safety advice, noting that landowners are usually responsible for maintaining their land, while other concerns like waste and fly-tipping should be reported to local authorities or police.

They are actively working with landowners, farmers, and property managers to mitigate fire risks.

Residents are reminded to call 999 if they discover a fire, see smoke or flames, if there is an immediate risk to life or property, or if a fire is spreading.

People are encouraged to provide detailed information about the location to help responders reach the scene quickly.

To prevent outdoor fires, the public is advised against lighting bonfires, using disposable barbecues, setting off fireworks, and urged to dispose of cigarettes and litter responsibly.

A statement from the Fire Brigades’ Union (FBU) said: “Firefighters control are having to make impossible decisions, with some services down to a single pump covering entire counties.

“FBU control members are speaking out. This is what years of cuts and underfunding looks like in a control room.”