Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents and visitors to help keep their communities fire-safe, as the summer holidays draw to a close.

A combination of the Bank Holiday weekend, the last chance for families to get away before schools restart, and large events such as Bournemouth Air Festival, will mean an influx of people visiting the region and using the roads over the coming days.

Area manager Marc House said: "The weather has been very variable this summer, so with only a short time before the holiday season is over, we know that any periods of sunshine will carry a far greater risk of fires starting from bonfires, campfires and disposable barbecues.

"A few simple changes to your plans can make all the difference – for example, packing a picnic or using a local café is safer than having a barbecue; walking a bit further but knowing your parked vehicle won't block a fire engine responding to an emergency; and taking all your litter home so there's no danger of a discarded cigarette setting fire to grass or heath. We can all do our bit."

Top tips recommended by the service are as follows:

• If you have a bonfire at home, site it well away from buildings, fences, trees and furniture. Have a garden hose to hand in case the fire starts to get out of control, and don't leave it unattended.
• Never throw away the coals from a home barbecue unless they are completely cold; let it cool for several hours and then douse in water.
• If you're out enjoying the countryside, please don't use a disposable barbecue, especially on heathland or in woodland; a picnic is far safer! #BringAPicnicNotABBQ
• If you're visiting the beach, don't use flares or fireworks near the cliffs, and avoid having campfires or disposable barbecues near beach huts or any foliage.
• Keep away from cliff edges, and make sure you read and understand any warning signs when visiting the coast.
• Always be careful when disposing of cigarette ends, matches and other smoking materials.
• Wherever you are, please be considerate when parking your car – a fire engine needs 3m clearance and any delay in getting through could be catastrophic.
• Local roads will be very busy, so please allow plenty of time for your journey and 'drive to arrive'.

Mr House added: "We want to do everything possible to avoid fires from starting, and we also want to keep our communities safe so that everyone can just enjoy the end of the summer.

"No-one sets out to have an accident, but we can all reduce the risks by taking extra care, whether at home, outside or on the roads."

More advice on how to stay safe can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/safety