SUFFOLK fire officers are aiming to spread the summer fire safety message to campers this Saturday on a cycle ride from Ipswich to Southwold.The firefighters will wheel their way to Tangham camp site in Rendlesham Forest and Southwold camping and caravan site, where they will talk to holidaymakers about some of the potential fire hazards of camping and caravaning.

SUFFOLK fire officers are aiming to spread the summer fire safety message to campers this Saturday on a cycle ride from Ipswich to Southwold.

The firefighters will wheel their way to Tangham camp site in Rendlesham Forest and Southwold camping and caravan site, where they will talk to holidaymakers about some of the potential fire hazards of camping and caravaning.

Leading the group will be Martyn Thorpe, community fire safety officer.

Martyn said: "We all hope for a long hot summer and the hot weather means more people will be thinking of going camping and caravaning. However, there are risks and anyone thinking of heading for the great outdoors should go armed with some safety advice. We will be dropping in on people this weekend to get this message across."

Peter Monk, member of the county council's executive committee said: "Obviously we want people to have a good time this summer but from time to time we all need reminders about safety. Most of this advice is common sense so enjoy your holiday and just be aware of the dangers."

Tips for safe camping include to allow at least six metres between tents and caravans, never use candles, and flammable liquids and gas cylinders should be kept outside the tent.

Keep matches out of the reach of children and don't leave young children alone in a caravan.

Caravans should be ventilated and matches kept out of reach of children.

If fire does break out, leave the area as quickly as possible and do not return unless the fire brigade tells you that it's safe.