The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is urging the public to take extra care around open water and in outdoor spaces as parts of the UK prepare for exceptionally high temperatures under a rare Met Office red warning for extreme heat.
The warning, covering parts of southern England and Wales, is the highest level of heat alert issued by the Met Office and signals a risk to life across the wider population, not only those traditionally considered vulnerable to extreme temperatures.
Forecasts indicate temperatures could reach as high as 38°C in some areas over the coming days.
Drowning Risks Increase During Heatwaves
Fire chiefs have highlighted the dangers associated with open water following a series of tragic incidents during recent hot weather.
During the recent half term heatwave, 19 children and adults lost their lives in accidental drowning incidents within a single week.
The latest Water Incident Database statistics show that 202 people accidentally drowned in water-related incidents across the UK during 2025.
NFCC is urging parents and carers to speak to children and young people about the dangers posed by rivers, lakes, reservoirs, canals and quarries.
Cold Water Shock Warning
Despite high air temperatures, water temperatures often remain dangerously cold. Entering open water suddenly can trigger cold water shock, affecting breathing and movement within seconds.
Research conducted by Bournemouth University found that accidental drowning fatalities are three times more likely to occur on days when air temperatures reach 25°C or higher compared with the seasonal average.
Wildfire Threat Continues to Grow
The expected heatwave is also increasing concerns around outdoor fires and wildfires.
NFCC data shows there have been 306 recorded wildfires in England and Wales between 1 January and 18 June 2026.
While this is lower than the 565 incidents recorded during the same period in 2025, it is already higher than the 277 incidents recorded by the same point in 2022, a year that went on to become a record-breaking wildfire season.
Public Urged to Take Precautions
Fire chiefs are reminding the public that many wildfires are preventable and are often caused by everyday activities such as disposable barbecues and carelessly discarded smoking materials.
With temperatures forecast to remain exceptionally high, NFCC is urging people to take extra care when spending time outdoors, follow local restrictions and guidance, and remain aware of the risks associated with both open water and fire during periods of extreme heat.
Phil Garrigan, NFCC Chair, said:“The Met Office issues red heat warnings only in the most serious circumstances and people should take this warning seriously.
“We have already seen the consequences that periods of extreme heat can have, with a number of lives tragically lost in water-related incidents during recent hot weather.
Open Water Risk Awareness
“If you are planning to spend time near water, take a moment to think about the risks and make sure you know how to stay safe.
“We are also asking people to be mindful of the impact their actions can have outdoors. Many people do not realise how easily a wildfire can start or how quickly it can spread.
“What begins as a small fire can rapidly become a major incident requiring a significant emergency response, particularly when conditions are hot and dry.
“The weather may be drawing people outdoors, but the risks are real. We want people to enjoy the warmer temperatures, but to do so safely and without putting themselves, their families or their communities in danger.”
