Barbecue and litter warning as families flock back to parks
COUNCIL URGES PUBLIC NOT TO SPOIL OUTDOOR AREAS DON’T MISS THE ULTIMATE SOUVENIR EDITIONS FOLLOWING LIVERPOOL FC’S HISTORIC PREMIER LEAGUE WIN.
THE council has asked people to take care of their parks after “shocking” examples of mistreatment.
It has urged the public not to spoil outdoor areas by leaving litter or lighting barbecues and fires. Parks have become a lifeline for many during the coronavirus lockdown, with more people now gathering there during sunny weekends. During Love Parks Week, the public are being asked to take more care. North East Lincolnshire Council has warned that barbecues and open fires in parks can quickly get out of control and put people’s lives at risk, particularly when the ground is dry.
Disposable barbecues can also scorch the grass and can easily tip over.
Barbecues continue to be banned on beaches, as they can make sand underneath dangerously hot for hours after it’s been removed. Councillor Stewart Swinburn, portfolio holder for environment and transport, said: “With so many people visiting and enjoying spending time in our parks, it’s shocking to see how some people are treating them. The coronavirus pandemic has shown how much people value their local parks and how vital they are for our physical and mental health.
“Coronavirus is still very much a threat, and like many organisations, we still face immense challenges to keep essential services running during the pandemic.
“It’s enjoyable to eat outside when the weather is warm, but it’s safer for everyone food.
“The last thing we need is people needlessly messing up our parks or starting fires.
“That’s why we’re calling on everyone to do their bit to keep parks clean and tidy.
“You can help by not having barbecues and by putting your litter in a bin or taking it home if the bins are full.”
if you avoid barbecue
Make sure the barbecue is in good working order
■ Place the barbecue on a flat site - not on grass - and away from park furniture, trees or shrubs
■ Keep children and pets well away from the cooking area ■ Never leave the barbecue unattended
■ Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies
■ Check the barbecue is cool before attempting to move it