Patrols to be carried out across Cornwall this weekend amid new wildfire warning
Crews say some parts of the Duchy could be at high risk
A warning has gone out to Cornwall about the risk of wildfires over the weekend.
Our fire service is preparing for patrols as a new warning suggests some areas of the Duchy will be at high risk.
It comes after a spate of recent gorse fires across Cornwall, from Bodmin Moor to the Lizard Peninsula.
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service says that last year, the number of wildfires in Cornwall increased by 80% compared with the previous year, and there were on average almost two wildfires per week.
People are being urged to take extra care when out and about in the countryside this weekend.
"Crews across Cornwall are preparing for fire patrols this weekend as there is a new wildfire risk warning, likely to affect Cornwall from today and into the weekend.
"The warning suggests that west and mid Cornwall shall have areas labelled as ‘HIGH’ severity."
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service
Help protect the countryside
Fires in the countryside can easily be started accidentally, or even deliberately. A carelessly discarded cigarette can lead to a huge fire, where the results to the wildlife can be devastating, so please follow this code and help to keep Cornwall's countryside free from fire.
Do not discard cigarettes in the countryside.
Do not leave glass items around after a picnic or barbecue. Put them in the bin. Remember the fire safety information on Barbecues.
Only light fires or barbecues in designated areas using the facilities provided.
Fires must be built at least 10m downwind from vegetation, tents and caravans.
Clear a patch of bare earth to build the fire on.
Ensure the fire collapses inwards when it burns.
Do not leave it unattended.
Never use petrol or paraffin on a fire.
Do not put batteries, aerosols or other gas cylinders on the fire.
If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately.
Don't attempt to tackle fires that can't be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.
Irresponsible behaviour
Anyone with information on fires being deliberately started in the countryside are advised to anonymously call Crimestoppers free on 0800 555 111 or contact Devon and Cornwall Police on 101 with information.
Arson puts both the public and firefighters at unnecessary risk. It ties up resources that could be in demand for other more serious incidents.
A lot of Cornwall is covered by on-call firefighters, so there's also a significant cost to each incident. Visit the Crimestoppers website.
You can find more information from Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service here.