Yorkshire Water is urging visitors to their reservoirs to act with caution ahead of future bank holidays.
They are asking people to follow the Countryside Code and not to take risks by using disposable barbeques or swimming in the water.
A number of moorland fires in 2022 have been linked to disposable barbeques.
Gaynor Carpenter, head of land and property at Yorkshire Water, said:
“With half-term upon us and a number of Bank Holiday weekends ahead, it is important that visitors to our reservoirs do not take risks by using disposable barbecues or entering the water. We’ve recently seen the very real dangers fires caused by barbecues pose to our moorland, which can take hundreds of years to recover.”
Disposable barbeques are not permitted on any of Yorkshire Water’s sites, and some of its areas are covered by Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s), which means people could face on the spot fines if they are found using one.
Firefighters recently battled a large fire at Brimham Rocks, with the fire service urging people to be careful about putting out cigarettes and barbeques.
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Gaynor added:
“It is also important visitors to our sites remain vigilant around the water, particularly parents with children who may be tempted to enter the water.
“We work hard to ensure our sites can be enjoyed by visitors from the region and beyond and it is important people leave the sites as they found them. Following the Countryside Code and ensuring to take litter home, keep dogs on leads and park considerately will all help to make visits to our reservoirs enjoyable for everyone.”
If visitors do see someone in the water who requires help or a fire, call 999 and ask for the fire service immediately.
