Warning against disposable barbecues and campfires as amber wildfire alert is issued in Dorset

Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to avoid using disposable barbecues in the countryside. Credit: PA

The Met Office is warning that parts of Dorset have a high or very high risk of wildfire this weekend, 8 and 9 August. In light of the amber wildfire alert, Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to stay vigilant and avoid using disposable barbecues and holding campfires in the countryside.

Wildfires can spread quickly and easily due to the dry and windy conditions. The fire service says, "As seen with the major incident in Wareham Forest earlier in the year, such fires take a great deal of resources and time to bring under control."

As lockdown is eased, more and more people will be heading to the countryside to enjoy the good weather but carelessness can have devastating consequences.

It is thought the devastating fire at Wareham Forest in May could have been started by discarded barbecues. Credit: Dorset Fire and Rescue Service

Group Manager Karen Adams from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service says: “The devastation caused by Wareham Forest highlights just how easily a moment of carelessness can escalate. The cost of these types of fires to the countryside, the Service, and the public themselves is not something that should be taken lightly.

"Of course we understand people wanting to get out and enjoy the summer, but as a community, we cannot afford to lose any more of our natural habitat."

Wildfires can start for a number of reasons, including:

  • Deliberate fire setting

  • Littering of items such as disposable barbecues and cigarettes

  • Campfires and bonfires either being left unattended or getting out of control

  • Sparks from machinery and vehicles

  • Cars parked on verges and the heat from their catalytic converters igniting the grass

Natural England has also warned against people having campfires and using disposable barbecues.

Dorset Police is also urging people to be responsible when visiting beaches and beauty spots in the area.

Neighbourhood Policing Chief Inspector Jim Beashel of Dorset Police, says: “As it was widely publicised during the last heatwave, a lot of litter was left behind on our beaches and there has already been a lot of devastation caused to local areas as a result of BBQs not being disposed of safely.

“Everyone is welcome to Dorset, we just ask that people be responsible by disposing of litter correctly and act respectfully so everyone can enjoy the beauty that Dorset has to offer.”