Common sense urged as warm weather set to continue

According to the latest weather forecast from the Met Office, it should be mostly dry this week with long sunny spells.

Warm and sunny spells are set to continue tomorrow and Friday, with highs of around 21C.

But sunseekers have been warned to exercise common sense during the good weather and adhere to the current public health advice on preventing the spread of Covid-19.

Assistant Chief Constable Alan Todd said: “I understand that as time goes on, and with the current spell of good weather, some people may be tempted to get out and about and make the most of the sunshine.

“However, as a Police Service, our key role is to support our public health colleagues and the Northern Ireland Executive to ensure we all play our part in stopping the spread of the virus and help save lives.

“On Bank Holiday Monday, and over the course of the weekend, we witnessed a rise in visitor numbers in some areas, including on the North Coast and in Newcastle.

“Our officers will continue with their patrols, and to use their discretion.’’

Mr Todd added: ‘‘We would encourage people not to drive to local beauty spots for their daily exercise as others may have the same idea and social distancing may not be achievable. It is also unfair to people who live close to local beauty spots who wish to make use of them.

“Each and every one of us has a personal responsibility to follow the NI Executive regulations and do everything we can to stop the spread of Covid-19. I want to thank everyone who has adopted a sensible approach and I hope this continues moving forward.”

THE Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) also issued a reminder on staying at home and essential travel.

A spokesperson said: “Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic we have been urging people to pay close attention to their own home fire safety to help support the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service and to prevent any additional pressures being added to our Health Service.

“If you are planning on enjoying a barbecue at home in the good weather, remember to never leave it unattended, concentrate on what you’re doing and keep children and pets away from the cooking area.’’

It said it has dealt with a number of ‘‘significant’’ wildfires across Northern Ireland over the last number of weeks.

‘‘These fires draw firefighters away from where they’re most needed and we appeal to everyone to be extremely careful when it comes to fire safety in the countryside and to not start deliberate fires.’’