Area placed in “very high fire risk” category
26/05/2026
Even the smallest spark, discarded cigarette or open flame could rapidly lead to a larger blaze
Oxfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging us to take extra care during the current spell of hot weather after most of our area was placed in the “very high fire risk” category.
Banbury, Brackley and the surrounding villages have moved from high to very high in the last few hours, with a risk of fires developing and spreading quickly.
People are being warned that even the smallest spark, discarded cigarette or open flame could rapidly lead to a larger blaze in the dry conditions.
Fire crews are asking residents and visitors to avoid lighting fires or barbecues in open spaces, to dispose of cigarettes safely and take extra precautions while temperatures remain high.
The warning comes as the Met office announced the record for the hottest May temperature in the UK was broken earlier today, when 35C was recorded at Heathrow and Kew Gardens in London.
Published: by the Banbury FM News Team
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