The Environment Agency declared a drought across London and other parts of southern England on 29 July after a long period of hot, dry weather. While this doesn’t mean water has run out, it does mean we all need to use it carefully and help reduce the risk of wildfires.
Last weekend, London Fire Brigade responded to more than 1,300 incidents during the hot weather, including a grass fire in Croydon.
As temperatures remain high, we’re asking everyone to do their bit to save water and take extra care when visiting our parks and open spaces.
Save water
Small changes at home can help protect water supplies during the dry weather. You can:
- Take shorter showers
- Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth
- Only use your washing machine or dishwasher when it’s full
- Use a watering can instead of a hose where possible.
A temporary hosepipe ban is now in place for Thames Water customers. Restrictions on hosepipes, sprinklers and pressure washers have been introduced due to dry weather and high demand. Some exemptions apply. Check the Thames Water website for full details and more tips on saving water. Thames Water website.
Help prevent wildfires
Hot, dry weather means wildfires can spread quickly. You can help protect our open spaces by:
- Never lighting fires or using disposable barbecues in parks or open spaces
- Putting cigarettes out properly and never dropping them on the ground
- Taking your litter home
- Calling 999 immediately if you see a grass fire or wildfire.
Find more advice about preventing wildfires on the London Fire Brigade website.
By making a few simple changes, we can all help protect Croydon’s green spaces, reduce the risk of wildfires and use water wisely during the hot, dry weather.
