Amber wildfire alert issued due to 'exceptionally hot weather'

  • David Graham, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

The exceptionally hot weather this week has 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 ignited, it could spread quickly and easily due to the dry conditions. The risk is greatest on large areas of open land, such as heathlands, fields and even cliff-sides.

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".

The fire service are pleading with people to do their bit to prevent wildfires. Credit: ITV News Meridian

The Fire & Rescue Service have released some top tips for staying 'fire safe':

  • Avoid having open fires or using barbecues in the countryside. Disposable barbecues and campfires are banned in many parts of 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.

And if you encounter a fire, you should:

  • Get to a safe space

  • Note the fire location (Apps like What3Words can help with this)

  • Call 999

  • Meet the Fire and Rescue service at the access point.

Landowners and land managers are advised to be prepared for fires and ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained. Cut grasses and vegetation should be removed from the site.