Wiltshire given amber wildfire alert due to exceptional weather

Soaring temperatures have led to an Amber wildfire alert being issued for the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service area.

An Amber alert means that, should a wildfire be experienced, it could spread quickly and easily due to the dry conditions.

The risk is greatest on large areas of open land, such as heathlands like Salisbury Plain, fields and even cliffsides.

Group Manager Darren Langdown said:

"While the hot weather is very welcome after the recent rain, it does increase the risk of fires spreading quickly if something happens to cause ignition. We are urging local farmers to take extra care while cutting crops, as sparks from hot machinery can easily lead to a field catching fire, and we ask everyone enjoying our beautiful countryside and coastline to be extra careful with anything that could lead to a fire starting."

We're being urged to avoid having open fires or using barbecues in the countryside,

And there' s plea to extinguish smoking materials properly, and not to throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.

If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service. Early detection can prevent it from developing into a large wildfire incident.

Using an app like What3Words can help if you're not sure of the location.

If you're at the beach, don't set off flares, have campfires or light barbecues as these can easily lead to gorse and foliage on the cliffs catching fire.

Landowners and land managers are advised to be prepared for fires, where possible, and ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained, with any cut grasses and vegetation removed from the site.

GM Langdown added:

"Dealing with wildfires is incredibly resource-intensive, and some can take days - and even weeks - to bring under control. Alongside the devastating impact on the countryside, such fires are also very costly, and yet they can be prevented if people heed the warnings and take care. We can all play a part in keeping Dorset and Wiltshire safe from fire."

Last year firefighters tackled a huge blaze in Wareham Forest which damaged around 550 acres.

The blaze is believed to have been started by a disposable barbecue or camp fire.

4 million litres of water was needed to tackle the flames.

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• dorest and wiltshire fire and rescue