RED fire risk in Dorset and Wiltshire following huge spike in 'blazes in the open'
The Met Office heat alert has prompted the warning
Last updated 11th Aug 2022
An 'unprecedented' increase in fires in the open, and the continuing heatwave, means a 'red fire severity alert' has been issued for the Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue area.
DWFRS tell us they've dealt 180 fires in the open so far in August 2022 (1st to 10th), compared to just 34 in the same period last year.
That's a 429% increase.
What's a red alert?
It means firefighters expect a wildfire would spread quickly and easily, due to the dry conditions.
The greatest risk would be to large areas of open land, like fields, heathland and even cliffsides.
Group Manager Stuart Gillion said:
“After months of warm and dry weather, our countryside areas are tinder dry. This not only increases the risk of fires spreading quickly but also increases the risk of ignition . We are urging local farmers to take extra care, as sparks from hot machinery can easily lead to a field catching fire, and we ask everyone enjoying our beautiful countryside and coastline to take extra care and be vigilant with anything that could lead to a fire starting.”
How can we help?
The advice from DWFRS includes:
- Please avoid having open fires or using barbecues in the countryside. Disposable barbecues and campfires are actually banned in many areas, particularly across Dorset
- Extinguish smoking materials properly, and don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows – take your litter home
- 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
- When calling the Fire & Rescue Service - get to a safe place; note the fire location (apps such as What3Words can help if you’re not sure); call 999
- Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible
- 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 also 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 Stuart Gillion said:
“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.”
There's more information on staying safe and enjoying outside areas whilst avoiding starting a wildfire on the DWFRS website.