We are urging residents to take extra care outdoors as the recent heatwave continues and dry conditions increase the risk of grass, field and wildfire incidents.
Over recent weeks, firefighters have attended a number of outdoor fires across the county. With high temperatures expected to continue and dry conditions set to persist, even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire.
Rural fires such as grassland and field fires can escalate rapidly under hot, dry and windy conditions, developing into wildfires that are far more challenging to contain, pose a greater risk to people, property and the environment, and place significant demands on emergency service resources.
Why does hot, dry weather increase the risk of wildfires?
Prolonged periods of warm, dry weather can significantly increase the risk of grass fires and wildfires. When there is little rainfall and temperatures remain high, vegetation such as grass, crops, shrubs and woodland begins to dry out, making it much easier to ignite.
Wind can also push flames into unburnt vegetation, allowing it to spread across large areas in a short space of time. In stronger winds, burning embers and sparks can be carried significant distances, creating new fires well ahead of the main fire front. This means a small fire can quickly develop into a much larger incident, becoming more difficult for firefighters to control.
Alex Mason, Prevention Lead at Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, said:
“A field fire can develop from something as small as a discarded cigarette or an unattended barbecue, and in the current conditions it doesn’t take long for a fire to spread.
“We’re asking everyone to think about the impact their actions can have on local communities, farmers, wildlife and our emergency services. By taking a few simple precautions and reporting fires quickly, we can all play a part in protecting the countryside this summer.”
How can you help prevent wildfires?
Most outdoor fires are preventable and are often caused by everyday activities. As the hot and dry weather continues, we’re urging everyone to take extra care and act responsibly when spending time outdoors.
Barbecue safety
Barbecues are one of the most common causes of outdoor fires during the summer months. Whether you’re at home, in a park or enjoying the countryside, ensure you use barbecues responsibly.
- Never leave a barbecue unattended.
- Keep barbecues well away from dry grass, hedges, fences and other combustible materials.
- Place barbecues on a stable, non-flammable surface.
- Ensure coals are fully extinguished and cool before disposal.
- Avoid using disposable barbecues in open countryside, parks or areas of dry grassland.
Smokers
Discarded smoking materials can easily ignite dry vegetation and start a fire.
- Fully extinguish cigarettes before disposing of them.
- Never throw cigarette ends from vehicles.
- Use appropriate bins or portable ashtrays when outdoors.
Take your litter home
Litter doesn’t just spoil our countryside, it can also increase the risk of fire.
- Take all rubbish home with you.
- Never leave glass bottles or broken glass behind.
- Dispose of waste responsibly in suitable bins.
Farmers and landowners
The current dry conditions can increase the risk of fires spreading across agricultural land, particularly during harvesting and other seasonal activities.
- Regularly inspect and maintain machinery to reduce the risk of sparks or overheating.
- Store hay, straw and other combustible materials safely and away from potential ignition sources.
- Keep fuel stores secure and well managed.
- Ensure field entrances, tracks and access routes are kept clear for emergency vehicles.
Compost heaps and garden waste
Compost heaps and garden waste can generate significant heat as materials break down, increasing the risk of fire if not managed properly.
- Monitor compost heaps regularly for signs of excessive heat or smoke.
- Keep compost heaps moist where appropriate to help prevent overheating.
- Avoid creating excessively large piles of compost or garden waste.
- Position compost heaps well away from buildings, fences, sheds and other combustible materials.
- Do not dispose of hot ashes, barbecue coals or other heat sources in compost heaps.
Adam Moore, Wildfire Lead at Buckinghamshire Fire & Rescue Service, said:
“One of the biggest concerns during hot, dry weather is how quickly a fire can spread. Fires that start in gardens, parks, fields or areas of dry grass can grow rapidly and, in the right conditions, spread towards homes, businesses and roads. This can put people at risk, cause significant damage to property and disrupt local communities.
Promptly reporting fires to the Fire Service can make a significant difference, helping crews intervene earlier and reducing the likelihood of a small fire escalating into a larger, more complex incident.“
If You See a fire
You should:
- Move to a safe location immediately.
- Call 999 and ask for the Fire Service.
- Provide as much information as possible about the location and size of the fire.
- Do not attempt to tackle large outdoor fires yourself.