I am calling for a ban on disposable BBQs.

It is regrettable that a minority seem unable to use them responsibly. In Lancashire we have had several large incidents of moorland fires which have caused untold damage to the moors, different plants and the habitats of wildlife. Of course, this is not limited to Lancashire but having seen the billowing smoke for days something has to be done.

In addition to the environmental damage, the resources and costs involved in dealing with these huge moorland wildfires is immense. Numerous fire engines from Lancashire & Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue, Police, United Utilities, Air Support, Mountain Rescue, Community Responders, Ambulance Service, wildlife advisors and support staff. Whilst dealing with such avoidable incidents the public is being left at risk as the number of emergency vehicles and staff are not available for local emergencies. We have had very little rainfall which has resulted in the reservoirs becoming low. The large amounts of water required for fire fighting these incidents has a massive effect on the reservoirs being depleted.

I have also seen on the news this morning that several disposable BBQs had been abandoned in the middle of a park over the weekend of hot weather and not disposed of responsibly. It is disgusting behaviour quite frankly.

We are barely at the beginning of summer and the weather has been exceptional. Let’s enjoy the weather responsibly and take care by not using disposable BBQs that are placed on the parched moorland/grass.

Thank you for your support.