With prolonged periods of extreme heat and very dry weather affecting many parts of the country, Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service is reminding residents of the simple steps they can take to help reduce the risk of fires and protect valuable emergency resources.
Like many fire and rescue services across the UK, we have seen a significant increase in demand during the recent spell of hot weather. We are continuing to monitor local and national conditions closely and are working alongside partner agencies to plan, prepare and respond to any emerging risks.
While national attention has focused on drought conditions and the increased risk of wildfires, we want to reassure our communities that we remain ready to respond when needed.
Area Commander for Response and Resilience, Paul Scanes, said:
“Looking at our own data for the period of heightened temperatures between 1 July and 11 August, we have experienced a 68 per cent rise in total calls for Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes to our control room, and a 42 per cent increase in incidents attended, when compared with the average for the same period over the previous three years. Of these, 412 were fires in the open – a 196 per cent increase on average totals for the previous three years.
“Understandably, our teams have been stretched by this significant increase in demand; however, we have maintained our usual emergency response capability and, on average, have continued to meet our Service 10-minute response standard.
“We have also been working effectively with our neighbouring fire and rescue services through established mutual aid arrangements. This collaboration helps ensure we can continue to deliver the service our communities expect and deserve.
“I would like to recognise the tremendous efforts of our firefighters and control room operators who continue to work incredibly hard throughout these challenging extreme weather conditions, firefighting, carrying out rescues, and responding to all our emergency calls.
“Our people are our most important asset. We recognise the physical demands that periods of extreme heat can place on firefighters and other staff, particularly when dealing with incidents in full personal protective equipment.
“That’s why we place a strong emphasis on welfare, ensuring our teams have access to the equipment, support and guidance they need to stay safe, hydrated, and well, while continuing to provide an excellent service to our communities.”
Increase in outdoor fires
Since 1 July (2026), firefighters were called to 412 fires in the open in Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes, representing a 196 per cent increase compared with the average total for the same period over the previous three years.
While a small number of these incidents have required larger-scale responses, most have involved smaller fires where one or two crews have acted quickly with excellent intervention to prevent them spreading and causing greater damage.
Where larger incidents have occurred, firefighting response has been supported by specialist resources, including:
- Rural Firefighting Vehicles (RFVs).
- Water tankers.
- Wildfire Support Officers providing tactical advice and operational support.
These resources help crews tackle fires safely and effectively, particularly in rural areas and open countryside.
Help us reduce the risk of fire
With vegetation and ground conditions remaining exceptionally dry, we’re asking residents to avoid activities that could accidentally start a fire.
Please avoid:
- Using disposable barbecues.
- Lighting bonfires.
- Setting off fireworks.
- Releasing sky lanterns.
- Discarding cigarettes, matches, or smoking materials onto the ground.
- Leaving litter behind, particularly glass bottles, which can intensify sunlight and increase the risk of fire.
Even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire when the ground and vegetation are dry.
Protecting vital resources
Many parts of the region are currently experiencing water shortages, with hosepipe restrictions in place and little significant rainfall forecast.
When fires occur, firefighters often require substantial quantities of water to bring them under control and prevent them from spreading. While public safety will always be our priority, preventing avoidable fires helps protect this vital resource and reduces unnecessary pressure on emergency services.
Paul Scanes added:
“We’re asking people to think carefully about their activities while these dry conditions continue. Seemingly harmless actions, such as using a disposable barbecue, lighting a bonfire, setting off fireworks or releasing a sky lantern, can quickly lead to a fire that threatens people, property, wildlife, and our countryside.
“Every fire we attend requires resources to bring it under control, including significant amounts of water. With water supplies already under pressure in many areas, preventing fires before they start is more important than ever.
“By taking a few simple precautions, everyone can help keep Buckinghamshire safe while helping us protect precious resources for the future.”
Thank you
We would like to thank residents for their continued support and cooperation. By taking a few simple precautions, everyone can play a part in helping to keep Buckinghamshire safe during periods of extreme weather.
Thanks also to our firefighters and staff who remain prepared to respond whenever and wherever they are needed.
Preventing fires before they start is something we can all help achieve together.