MORE than one thousand 999 calls were made to Merseyside fire service last weekend alone as the unprecedented spell of hot weather continues.

Fire chiefs have again urged the public to be extra careful as more than 100 grassland blazes stretched resources - and some of the incidents have been caused by arson attacks.

Locally there have been significant fires at Bidston Hill, Harrison Park, Wallasey, Sherdley Park, St Helens and Formby & Ainsdale Pine Woods.

On a national level Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service is supporting mobilisation of resources to major incidents on Saddleworth Moor and Winter Hill in Lancashire.

Some of the fires in Merseyside are believed to have been started deliberately - and parents are urged to discuss the very serious consequences of arson with their children.

Readers are urged to be vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour to MFRS and Merseyside Police.

Group manager for prevention Mark Thomas said: "The current conditions are creating the ideal environment for fires to start in woodland and grassland.

"We would urge the public to be especially careful in the hot weather and dispose of rubbish and barbecues safely.

"We would also remind particularly parents that deliberately setting a fire is arson.

"Deliberate fires are investigated. Merseyside Fire and Rescue Service’s arson team will be working with Merseyside Police, local authorities and other partner agencies to identify offenders.

"Please speak to your children about the very real consequences of arson for them and others."

There are several ways people can reduce the risk of grassland and woodland fires:

•Ensure cigarettes are extinguished correctly and cannot reignite - don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground – take your litter home.

•Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows.

•Avoid using open fires in the countryside.

•Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodland – sunlight shining through glass can start fires - take them home and recycle them.

•Only use barbecues in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended.

•If you see a fire, report it to the fire and rescue service immediately by calling 999 and give the nearest main road that the fire appliance can access.

•Don’t attempt to tackle fires– leave the area as quickly as possible.

For free fire safety advice or to request a home fire safety check call 0800 731 5958.