Residents are being urged to take extra care this weekend as soaring temperatures and prolonged dry weather create what firefighters have described as exceptional wildfire conditions across Wiltshire and Dorset.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) says crews have already attended a number of significant fires involving fields, heathland and open countryside since Wednesday, with the current heatwave increasing the risk of further incidents.
Firefighters are warning that even small sparks can quickly develop into large fires, threatening wildlife, farmland and the wider environment.
Group Manager Matthew Skyme said the combination of hot weather and dry vegetation had created particularly hazardous conditions.
“With the third heatwave this year currently being experienced, I’m urging the public to take extra care to help avoid and prevent fires, especially during these challenging conditions.
“We appreciate that many people will want to enjoy the nice weather with friends and family, but it’s vital they consider the potential impacts that this hot weather can bring to everyday activities.”
The fire service is asking people to avoid lighting barbecues or campfires, particularly on heathland and in other open spaces.
Anyone who does use a barbecue is urged to fully extinguish coals with water before disposing of them, while smokers are reminded never to discard cigarette ends onto the ground or from vehicle windows.
People are also being advised not to light garden bonfires while the high-risk conditions continue.
At beaches, visitors are being warned not to use disposable barbecues, campfires or flares, as nearby dry vegetation can ignite quickly.
Anyone who spots a fire in the countryside should move to a place of safety and call 999 immediately, using the What3Words app where possible to provide an accurate location.
The warning also extends to farmers and agricultural workers, with harvesting season bringing an increased risk of machinery-related fires.
Mr Skyme said crews had attended four significant field fires in a single day earlier this week.
“At this time of year, farmers are working long, hard hours and farm and field fires are also a big risk.
“It’s easy to let chaff and dust build up in the machines, which can then catch fire if any parts then overheat. The problem can be compounded when machinery is worked extra hard during hot weather, or when crops are harvested and stored in less-than-ideal conditions. There’s also the risk of field fires, often caused when flint is caught and sparked.”
The fire service is advising farmers to regularly clean combines and balers, investigate overheating machinery immediately, carry fire extinguishers on vehicles and ensure workers can be contacted if they are working alone.
It also recommends using What3Words to help emergency services locate incidents quickly in remote rural areas.
Anyone who witnesses deliberate fire-setting is urged to call 999 and ask for the police. Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers.
With little significant rainfall forecast and temperatures remaining high, firefighters are asking everyone to play their part in reducing the risk of preventable fires over the coming days.
