An Amber Wildfire Alert is in place across most of England and Wales – including the Isle of Wight – this weekend. Dry and warm conditions increase the chances of fires in the open spreading out of control. We want to avoid incidents of this kind, for the sake of our communities, precious nature sites and wildlife. Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire & Rescue Service (HIWFRS)’ Wildfire Lead, Larry Mackrell, has said:
“Barbecues, campfires and bonfires can very easily spread out of control and drier, warmer weather increases the risk of wildfires, so it really is vital that people take extra care when visiting our beauty spots and green spaces. “Fires in the open can cause significant damage to our woods, heaths and countryside. We all want to be able to enjoy being outdoors and a few simple steps can reduce the risk of fire. “Always discard of cigarettes properly, put litter and glass bottles in a bin or take your rubbish home, and please pack a picnic, not a disposable barbecue.”
These simple tips will help you to stay safe in the countryside and protect it for others to enjoy:
- Do not discard cigarettes in the countryside; dispose of smoking materials properly and make sure they are completely extinguished
- Clear away bottles, glasses and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire
- Always take extra care if using a barbecue
- Only light fires or barbecues in designated areas using the facilities provided – and remember, barbecues are not allowed in any part of the New Forest National Park
- Don’t leave campfires or barbecues unattended and extinguish them properly after you have finished using them
- Talk to young people about the dangers of playing with and lighting fires
- Report any information about illegal fire setting activities and those responsible (anonymously) to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
If you see a fire:
- If you do see a fire in the countryside, get to safety and contact us immediately – dial 999
- Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water
- Give a map reference if possible, otherwise give a landmark such as a farm or pub to help locate the fire
- Download the What3Words app on your phone to help us pinpoint incidents
- Estimate the size of the area that’s burning
- Describe the type of terrain (grass, bracken, forest, open moorland etc)
- Evacuate the area as soon as possible
Due to the current warmer weather people may also be tempted to cool down with water activities, check out HIWFRS’ on and around water section on how to do so safely
I blame Island roads, god, everytime I read or hear “Island roads”, I want to go chimp mode.
Come on seriously, wild fires, it hasn’t been that warm or dry enough for that. I’ve driven past many areas where the farm land is still flooded
Arson, but then that’s not a wildfire. Probably upset some group by saying that though!
Mr Mackrell
I dont think I have ever seen the island looking so green this time of year due to the continuous rain fall only up to a week or so ago .
Even trying to cut the grass in the garden it gets clogged in the blades where at ground level is still wet .
Think your worryIng a bit to early for wild fires especially putting a AMBER alert out Is a bit over the top .
Let’s hope it don’t get to dry as you now got 1 less station than you had before Or very soon will have one less
Maybe spend your time looking at recruitment , looking at availability of what you have available at any one time and look to improving that .