AS North Wales is set to bask in gorgeous sunshine, safety advice has been issued to prevent unnecessary fires.

Flintshire and Wrexham are set to see temperatures soar to as high as 31C today (Friday, July 31), and many households will be reaching for the barbecues.

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is urging residents to ensure the barbecue is in good working order before use.

A spokesman said: “Keep a bucket of water, a bucket of sand or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies.

“Make sure that your barbecue site is flat and well away from buildings, fences, trees and shrubs.

“Use only enough charcoal to cover the base of the barbecue to a depth of about 50mm(two inches)

“Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area.”

If you are using a gas barbecue, residents are being urged to ensure the tap is turned off before changing the cylinder.

The fire service spokesman added: “Change gas cylinders in the open air if possible or open doors and windows to provide good ventilation.

“When you've finished cooking, turn off the gas cylinder before you turn off the barbecue controls, to ensure any gas in the pipeline is used up.

“Do not keep gas cylinders that you do not need. Return all empty cylinders to where you bought them.”