High Risk of Wildfires Along Sefton’s Coastline Due to Prolonged Dry Weather.

As warm weather and fabulous sunshine set to continue this weekend, the Council’s Green Sefton team are urging beach goers to do their bit to protect Sefton’s beaches.

After a prolonged period of dry weather, our natural landscape is at a high risk of wildfires.

Visitors can help minimise the risk of accidental fires by taking all rubbish home, and ensuring no cigarettes are dropped or glass bottles left on the ground, as these can quickly become the source of a fire.

Disposable BBQs are not allowed anywhere along our 22 miles of coastline, whether that be in the dunes, woodlands or beach. Fires of any kind are also banned.

If you see fire, report it immediately by calling 999, ask for the Fire Service and give as much detail as possible including the nearest main road – this will help crews mobilise and fight fires as quickly as possible.

Cllr Ian Moncur, Sefton Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Wellbeing, said:

“The good weather brings an influx of visitors across our coastal gateways at Southport, Ainsdale and Crosby, with National Trust partners at Formby also experiencing extremely high visitor numbers.

“Sadly, it can result in an increase of litter at our beauty spots. Our message is simple – if you brought it to the beach with you, then you can take it home with you.

“Fires and BBQs are not permitted anywhere along the coast, be that at Crosby, Formby, Ainsdale or Southport. Not only do they pose a risk of harm to people, but fires can also devastate the rare and protected habitats we are so lucky to have here in Sefton.”

The dry weather also has an impact on sand conditions, making the sand very soft, which can impact vehicle access to our beach car parks.

While both Ainsdale and Southport beach car parks remain open, large heavy vehicles, such as Horse Boxes, will not be allowed on to avoid these vehicles becoming stuck in the soft sand.

And during busy days, there can be queues for vehicles waiting in hot weather for a parking spot on the beach, which visitors with small children or pets should consider when planning their journey.

For more information on visiting the Sefton coast, people should go to www.sefton.gov.uk/beaches 

Sefton Council continues to work with the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership that brings together organisations who want to ensure the safety of visitors and residents along the 22-mile coastline. Members include Sefton Council, Merseyside Police, Merseyside Fire and Rescue, British Transport Police, National Trust Formby, Natural England, the RNLI and others.

People can follow the Sefton Coast Landscape Partnership agencies Twitter accounts for more advice and latest updates throughout the summer: @SeftonCouncil @NTFormby @MerseyFire @MerseyPolice @RNLI @MCA_media @BTPMersey @NaturalEngland @Merseyrail