After tackling a major barn blaze near Goodwood House last night, West Sussex County Council Fire and Rescue Service today (Tuesday, July 4) warned of the need to safeguard our spectacular countryside during the current heatwave.

Roger Wood , Community Safety Officer, said: "We're urging people to protect the sensational scenery of West Sussex by:

• Extinguishing cigarettes and other smoking materials properly.
• Never throwing cigarette ends out of car windows.
• Only using barbecues in suitable and safe areas and never leaving them unattended.
• Keeping young children and ball games away from barbecues.
• Ensuring your barbecue is properly out and cold before disposing of the contents.
• Avoiding open fires in the countryside.
• Not leaving bottles or glass in woodlands – sunlight shining through glass can start large fires. Take them home or put them in a waste or recycling bin.
• Keep children away from matches.

"A fire in the open countryside can easily get out of control. If you see a fire report it immediately. Don't attempt to tackle fires that cannot be put out with a bucket of water. Leave the area as soon as possible."

Lionel Barnard , County Council Cabinet Member for Public Protection, said: "The countryside of West Sussex is one of our most valuable – and treasured – assets. I am sure everyone will be keen to follow this advice from our fire safety experts."