AS temperatures in Maldon are set to climb to 34 degrees tomorrow (Friday 6 August) and with more heat to come over the weekend, the fire service has issued advice on keeping safe in water, as well as preventing fires.

The guidance is especially relevant to the district, with coastal areas, rivers and navigations providing added risk.

Assistant Director of Prevention and Protection at Essex Fire and Rescue Service, James Palmer, said: If you're looking to cool off in the water, make sure you're staying safe. Drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental deaths in the UK. Fifty per cent of people who die never intended to go in the water.

"Assess the conditions before wading in - don't swim out of your depth and don't take any risks as currents can quickly change, particularly in the sea. Keep an eye on each other when in the water and never let children into the water without adult supervision.

"If you fall into the water, cold water shock can cause you to panic but these effects will pass in a less than a minute. Try to relax and float on your back while you catch your breath and if you can, grab hold of something to help you float. Stay calm, call for help and swim to safety if you can."

Rural fires and barbecues

James added: "Hot and dry weather can lead to more fires and the service wants everyone to help minimise the risk by taking extra care when having a barbecue or bonfire. Make sure to set it well away from sheds, fences, trees and plants and ensure it is properly extinguished before leaving it.

"If you are taking a disposable barbecue to the beach or on a picnic, don't place the barbecue on the grass or near plants and use tools to handle it. Make sure the barbecue is completely cool before disposing of it in a bin, as the embers in the barbecue remain hot for some time and could set fire to rubbish.

If you are smoking while out and about, make sure to properly extinguish your cigarette as the end could smoulder in dry grass and cause a fire.

Glass and mirrors can also overheat and start a fire, so make sure to take all litter home with you if you can't dispose of it. Move mirrors out of direct sunlight and away from windows.

"We want everyone to stay safe during the hot weather. Look after yourself and others by taking extra care. Consider the impact you could have on the emergency services if cigarettes and disposable barbecues are not extinguished properly - we've had a number of large grass fires recently and with high temperatures and wind on the way, the risk of these fires increases."

For more outdoor safety advice, visit: essex-fire.gov.uk/outdoors Essex County Fire and Rescue Service website