Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service Oakham Station

04/09/2026

Chimney Safety Week 2026: Is Your Chimney Ready for Winter?

Chimney Fire Safety Week 2026 is set to take place from September 7-13. This annual campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of chimney fires and encourage safe practices among homeowners.

As the weather starts to cool down, many people will be getting ready to light their fireplaces, log burners and multi-fuel stoves for the first time in months.

Before you strike that first match, take a few simple steps to make sure your chimney is safe, efficient and ready for use.

✅ Have your chimney swept A professional chimney sweep can remove soot, tar debris, animal nests and any other blockages that may have built up over time. These deposits can restrict airflow and significantly increase the risk of a chimney fire.

✅ Check for damage Look out for loose bricks, damaged chimney pots, cracks or signs of deterioration. If you have any concerns, seek advice from a qualified professional before using your fire or stove.

✅ Ensure good ventilation Fuel-burning appliances need a supply of fresh air to operate safely. Never block air vents and make sure smoke can flow freely up the chimney.

✅ Use the right fuel Only burn the fuel recommended for your appliance. Burning unsuitable materials can increase soot deposits, damage your chimney and create more smoke.

✅ Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarm Smoke alarms should be tested regularly, and every home with a solid fuel appliance should have a working carbon monoxide alarm installed in accordance with manufacturer guidance. Remember to check the expiry date on the carbon monoxide alarm as, if this date has past, then the alarm may no longer work as intended and should be replaced.

✅ Burn hot and clean fuel. Using properly seasoned wood with a low moisture content helps your stove burn more efficiently, reduces smoke and lowers the build-up of hazardous deposits in the chimney.

Many chimney fires are preventable. Regular maintenance and safe use of fireplaces and stoves can help protect your home, your family and your community.

This Chimney Safety Week, take a few minutes to check that your fireplace, stove and chimney are ready for the months ahead.

Stay safe and enjoy the warmth responsibly.

17/07/2026

Important Wildfire Safety Message for the Rutland community

This afternoon, firefighters from Oakham Fire Station visited a number of woodland locations across the county and found evidence of campfires, bonfires, wild sleeping and significant amounts of litter having been left behind.

With the current prolonged dry weather, we are asking everyone to think carefully before lighting any fire in the countryside.

Why are woodland fires so dangerous?

What may appear to be a small campfire can spread rapidly into surrounding vegetation, leaf litter, undergrowth and woodland. During periods of hot, dry weather, fires can develop unexpectedly and quickly become uncontrollable. Most wildfires in the UK are caused by human activity, including campfires, bonfires and fires that have not been properly extinguished.

Many of the rural and wooded locations we visited today are in remote areas with:
• Limited vehicle access for emergency services
• No immediate water supplies
• Dense vegetation that can accelerate fire spread
• Wildlife habitats that can be devastated by fire

A fire that starts in these conditions can threaten not only the environment and wildlife, but also nearby properties, farms and members of the public.

Our advice is simple: do not light fires in woodland or countryside locations.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service strongly advises against lighting campfires, bonfires or disposable barbecues in wooded, rural or open countryside areas, particularly during periods of dry weather and heightened wildfire risk.

While we don't condone anyone having a wildfire in these conditions, we cannot prevent people from doing so therefore, if you do choose to have a fire, it is vitally important that you area aware of the risks and take all the appropriate steps to reduce the risk and remain safe. Please consider the following:

• Keep the fire as small as possible.
• Never leave it unattended.
• Clear vegetation, leaves and other combustible materials from around the fire.
• Keep water, sand or other extinguishing materials immediately available.
• Monitor sparks and embers, especially in windy conditions.
• Do not burn rubbish, aerosols or other hazardous materials.
• Ensure children and pets are supervised at all times.

Before you leave the site

It is essential that the fire is completely extinguished.

• Drown the fire thoroughly with water.
• Stir ashes and embers to remove hidden hot spots.
• Continue applying water until everything is cold to the touch.
• Never bury a fire, as heat can remain underground and reignite later.
• Check the area carefully before leaving.

Fires that appear to be out can reignite hours later and develop into significant wildfires.

Wildfires and the law

Members of the public have no general right to light fires on land that they do not own. In England and Wales, permission from the landowner is generally required, and local byelaws or restrictions may prohibit open fires entirely.

Many of the woodland locations where evidence of campfires is found are privately owned. Entering private land without permission in order to camp, build fires or gather for social activities may constitute trespass and could result in landowners involving the police or taking civil action. Landowners may also seek to recover costs where damage has been caused to land, woodland, fences, crops, wildlife habitats or other property.

If a fire spreads and damages land, property, habitats or wildlife, those responsible may face enforcement action, substantial fines or prosecution. Even where there was no intention to start a wildfire, acting recklessly or failing to properly control or extinguish a fire can have serious legal consequences.

In the most serious cases, where a fire is started deliberately or through reckless behaviour, offences relating to arson and criminal damage can lead to a criminal record, significant financial penalties and imprisonment.

Put simply, a campfire in a remote woodland may seem harmless, but if it gets out of control the consequences can be devastating for landowners, wildlife, the environment and the individuals responsible. Please respect private property, obtain the appropriate permissions, follow local restrictions and help protect our countryside

Lastly, please take your litter home

The amount of litter found at several sites today was disappointing. Litter not only harms the environment and wildlife, but items such as glass bottles and discarded smoking materials can also contribute to fire risk.

Please help us protect our countryside. Enjoy these beautiful outdoor spaces responsibly, leave no trace, and help reduce the risk of preventable wildfires.

If you discover a fire in the countryside, move to a place of safety and call 999 immediately.

17/07/2026

Why Do We Close Roads at Emergency Incidents?

We understand that road closures can be frustrating and inconvenient, especially when you're trying to get to work, home or an appointment. However, when Fire and Rescue Service crews close a road, it is always for a very good reason.

At several recent incidents, our firefighters have encountered motorists and cyclists ignoring road closure signs and attempting to pass through restricted areas. This behaviour not only places those individuals at risk but can also affect our crews' ability to work safely and efficiently.

Emergency incidents are often unpredictable environments. Hazards can include:

- Fire and smoke
- Damaged electrical equipment or power lines
- Unstable vehicles involved in collisions
- Structural damage to buildings
- Debris on the road that could be harmful to you or your vehicle

Road closures help create a safe working area for emergency responders and protect members of the public from potential danger. Every unnecessary vehicle or cyclist entering the scene adds to the risk and can delay the vital work being carried out.

If you see a road closure sign, please remember:

- The road is closed for a reason
- Follow diversion routes where provided
- Respect instructions from emergency services personnel
- Help us keep everyone safe

We appreciate your patience and cooperation. By respecting road closures, you're helping firefighters, police officers, ambulance crews and other emergency responders do their jobs safely and effectively.

Please don't put yourself or others at risk. If the road is closed, turn around and find an alternative route.

08/07/2026

Wild Swimming: Enjoy Open Water Safely

With warmer weather encouraging more people to visit lakes, rivers, reservoirs, canals and coastal areas, Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service wants to remind everyone that open water can be far more dangerous than it looks.

LFRS strongly advises against wild swimming due to the significant and often hidden dangers associated with open water. If you do choose to swim, we urge you to do so only at designated, supervised outdoor swimming locations where safety measures are in place.

There are many hidden risks of open water, including:

-Cold water shock can affect anyone, even on warm days
-Strong currents and underwater hazards may not be visible from the surface
-Sudden changes in depth can catch swimmers off guard
-Water quality issues and hidden debris can increase the risk of injury

Entrapment hazards such as weeds, rocks and submerged objects
Steep, slippery banks can make getting out of the water difficult
Swimming alone means there may be nobody nearby to help in an emergency

Before entering any open water, we urge you to consider the following:

Only swim at designated outdoor swimming venues with appropriate safety measures in place

-Never swim alone – go with others and look out for each other
-Tell someone where you're going and when you expect to return
-Check weather conditions and local water safety advice
-Avoid alcohol or drugs before and during any water-based activity
-Wear bright, visible swimwear and consider a personal flotation device where appropriate

Know your limitations and do not take unnecessary risks

If you do get into difficulty when swimming, consider the following:

-Stay calm and try to float on your back
-Tilt your head back and keep your ears submerged
-Control your breathing and resist the urge to thrash about
-Once your breathing is under control, call for help if you can
-Swim to safety only when you are able to do so safely

If You See Someone in Distress in Open Water:

-Dial 999 immediately and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service if inland, or the Coastguard if at the coast
-Do not enter the water to attempt a rescue unless you are trained and equipped to do so
-Encourage the casualty to remain calm and float on their back if they can hear you
-Look for something that floats and throw it to them, such as a buoyancy aid, lifebuoy or other floating object
-If possible, use a throwline or reach from a safe position using a pole, branch or similar object
-Continue to reassure the casualty until emergency services arrive

Remember: Float to Live – if you unexpectedly enter the water, tilt your head back, keep your ears submerged, relax and control your breathing until the effects of cold water shock pass.
Enjoy the outdoors, respect the water, and help keep yourself and others safe.

15/06/2026

Supporting National Carers Week

This week, we’re proud to recognise National Carers Week, a chance to celebrate and support the millions of unpaid carers across the UK who provide vital care to family members, friends and neighbours.

Carers play a crucial role in our communities. Many balance caring responsibilities alongside work, family life and personal commitments, often without recognition. Their dedication helps keep loved ones safe, well and independent.

As a Fire and Rescue Service, we understand how important it is to support those who care for others. Carers may face additional challenges in emergency situations, and we are here to help, whether that’s through home safety advice, home safety checks or ensuring the right support is in place.

This year’s Carers Week highlights the importance of recognising carers and ensuring they have access to the support they need to stay safe, healthy and valued.

We encourage everyone to learn more about Carers Week and how you can support carers in your community:
🔗 https://www.carersweek.org/

If you know a carer, take a moment this week to thank them. It really does make a difference.

You’re amazing. Through us all coming together and sharing our support, we can help ensure our communities recognise, understand and value unpaid carers. Your name will soon appear on the Building Carer Friendly Communities wall, once our team has approved your entry.

14/06/2026

Great Day at Gates Garden Centre!

The Oakham crew had a fantastic time attending the LOROS Summer Fete at Gate’s Garden Centre.

It was a brilliant opportunity for us to get out into the community, meet members of the public, and have some great conversations about what we do.

Events like this are really important to us as they give us an opportunity to let people take a closer look at the fire engine, have a nice chat with people, and share valuable fire safety advice to help keep tpeople safe.

As we head into the busy summer season, the crew at Oakham are always keen to support local events. If you’re planning something in the community and would like us to attend, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

We look forward to hearing from you!

06/06/2026

Child Safety Week – Keeping Children Safe at Home

This Child Safety Week, we’re reminding families that fire safety is an important part of keeping children safe at home. Small actions can make a big difference in preventing accidents and protecting loved ones.

Taking the following precautions will help to keep you and your loved ones safe:

✅ Test your smoke alarms weekly
✅ Keep matches and lighters out of reach
✅ Create and practise a family escape plan
✅ Never leave cooking unattended
✅ Keep heaters and chargers clear of clutter

Children are naturally curious, so taking a few simple precautions can help prevent fires and other household accidents.

For more advice and resources to help keep children safe, visit:
🔗 https://capt.org.uk/child-safety-week/

29/05/2026

This week is National Boat Fire Safety Week

Whether you’re spending time on canals, rivers, lakes or the coast this summer, fire safety on boats is just as important as it is at home.

Fires on boats can spread incredibly quickly, putting everyone on board at serious risk and making escape more difficult. Taking a few simple precautions can help keep you, your family and others safe while enjoying the water.

Top Boat Fire Safety Tips:

-Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms regularly
-Keep fire extinguishers maintained and easy to access
-Check fuel lines, gas appliances and electrical systems frequently
-Never leave cooking unattended
-Store fuel safely and switch off appliances when not in use
-Ensure everyone on board knows the emergency escape plan
-Keep escape routes clear at all times

In an emergency:

• Raise the alarm immediately
• Get everyone to safety as quickly as possible
• Move away from the fire if safe to do so
• Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service and Coastguard if at sea

Enjoy the water safely this summer and help spread awareness during National Boat Fire Safety Week.

21/05/2026

Dementia Action Week 2026

One in two of us will be affected by dementia in our lifetime. Too many families are left to face it alone. Dementia Action Week is an opportunity to raise awareness, encourage understanding, and support people living with dementia and their families.

Dementia can affect memory, communication, and the ability to carry out everyday tasks safely. Simple actions at home can help reduce risks and support loved ones to live safely and independently for longer.

Things you can do to help keep someone with dementia safe at home:

• Test smoke alarms regularly
• Keep escape routes clear and easy to access
• Avoid overloading plug sockets
• Switch off electrical appliances when not in use
• Keep matches, candles, and lighters stored safely
• Ensure cooking is never left unattended

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service offers FREE Home Fire Safety Checks that can be delivered at a time that suits you.

During the visit, our crews will provide tailored fire safety advice for you, your family and your homes, and install new smoke alarms if needed, all completely free of charge.

Taking a few minutes today could save lives tomorrow.
If you think you, or someone you know, would benefit from a visit, you can book a free Home Fire Safety Check via the following link: https://leics-fire.gov.uk/request-home-fire-safety-check...
Please share this message to help keep our communities safe.

14/05/2026

Mental Health Awareness Week

This week is Mental Health Awareness Week which serves as an important reminder that looking after our mental wellbeing is just as important as looking after our physical health.

Life can sometimes feel overwhelming, and it’s okay to not feel okay. Taking small steps to support your mental health, such as staying connected with others, getting active, talking openly, and taking time to rest, can make a big difference.

At Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service, we encourage everyone to check in on friends, family, colleagues, and neighbours. A simple conversation could help someone more than you realise.

If you are struggling, remember that support is available and you do not have to face things alone.

Let’s work together to break the stigma surrounding mental health and create supportive, compassionate communities for everyone.