AFTER a record-breaking spring heatwave, Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to take care with fire.

With the warmest April on record and a continued dry spell, firefighters are concerned about small fires getting out of control.

They are asking residents to be careful with barbecues and to refrain from lighting fires when visiting the countryside.

Community risk reduction manager, Steve Borrell, said: "I'd like to remind people to take extra care during this 'barbecue spring' we have been enjoying in recent weeks and to think about fire safety.

"The ground is very dry at the moment and it doesn't take much to start a fire, but at the same time fires are easily preventable."

Mr Borrell asks residents not to pour flammable liquid on barbecues, not to leave them unattended and to make sure that all fire is fully extinguished after use.