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Wildfire safety and prevention

 

Wildfire safety and prevention

Wildfires can occur in Hertfordshire’s countryside, woodlands, parks, heathland and open spaces, particularly during periods of warm weather.

They're becoming increasingly common across the UK and can spread rapidly, threatening people, wildlife, property and critical infrastructure.

Most wildfires are caused by human activity and are often preventable. By taking simple precautions, everyone can help reduce the risk.

 

 

 

Top 7 ways to reduce the risk of wildfires

  1. Avoid lighting fires in the countryside or other open spaces.
  2. Don't use disposable barbecues.
  3. Only use barbecues in designated areas where they are permitted and conditions allow. Never leave it unattended and fully extinguish with water after use.
  4. Never leave glass bottles or broken glass in open spaces.
  5. Dispose of cigarettes and smoking materials carefully and ensure they're fully extinguished. Never throw cigarette ends from vehicles.
  6. Don't release sky lanterns.
  7. Follow the Countryside Code 

 

Report any deliberate fire setting, suspicious behaviour or repeated fire-related anti-social behaviour at FireStoppers.

 

Advice for farmers, landowners and land managers

Harvest season reminder

During harvest periods, dry crops, grassland and agricultural machinery can significantly increase wildfire risk. Regular equipment checks, carrying appropriate firefighting equipment and reporting fires early can help prevent small incidents from becoming major wildfires.

  

Reduce the risk

Consider taking the following precautions, particularly during periods of hot, dry weather:

  • manage areas of long, dry grass and dense vegetation
  • maintain fire breaks and access routes
  • remove accumulations of combustible material where safe and appropriate to do so
  • monitor local conditions and remain alert to elevated wildfire risk during prolonged dry periods.

  

Agricultural machinery and harvest activities

Agricultural operations can present an increased wildfire risk during dry weather. To reduce the likelihood of accidental fires:

  • regularly inspect agricultural machinery for overheating components
  • remove dust, crop residue and debris from machinery
  • exercise caution when undertaking activities that may generate sparks or heat
  • keep suitable firefighting equipment available
  • review harvesting activities during periods of exceptionally high wildfire risk.

  

Support emergency access

If a wildfire occurs, quick access for emergency services can make a significant difference. Landowners should consider:

  • keeping access tracks and gateways clear
  • ensuring remote locations can be accurately identified using grid references or what3words
  • making known any suitable water supplies such as reservoirs, ponds or storage tanks.

 

If a fire starts on your land...

  • move to a safe location and call 999 immediately
  • provide as accurate a location as possible
  • don't assume someone else has already reported the fire
  • only attempt to tackle a fire if safe to do so and you're trained and equipped appropriately.
If your property borders open countryside

If your property borders open countryside, woodland, grassland or heathland:

  • keep grass short and vegetation well maintained
  • remove combustible rubbish and garden waste
  • store fuel, gas cylinders and flammable materials safely
  • create clear areas between buildings and dense vegetation where possible.
  • Be vigilant during periods of hot, dry weather.

 

 

Barbecue safety

Barbecues can cause serious fires and should only be used responsibly.

 

Disposable barbecues

Don't use disposable barbecues. They're a significant wildfire risk and have been linked to a number of serious fires across the UK. During periods of heightened wildfire risk, disposable barbecues should not be used in parks, countryside locations, open spaces or grassland.

The government has also introduced restrictions on their sale during the current drought and heatwave conditions because of the risk they pose to people, property and the environment.

 

Gas and charcoal barbecues

If you are using a barbecue:

  • only barbecue where it is permitted
  • position it well away from grass, shrubs, fences, sheds and overhanging branches
  • place it on a stable, non-combustible surface
  • keep water nearby
  • never use petrol or other flammable liquids to light or relight it
  • never leave it unattended
  • ensure coals, ashes and embers are fully extinguished before disposal
  • don't barbecue on dry grassland, heathland, in woodland areas or other locations where fire could spread quickly.

 

If conditions are exceptionally hot, dry or windy, consider postponing barbecues altogether.

 

 

 

Report deliberate fire setting

Many wildfires are caused by human activity, including deliberate fire setting. If you're concerned about repeated fire-related anti-social behaviour, deliberate fire setting or activities that could increase the risk of a wildfire, report it to us at FireStoppers.

Examples include:

  • deliberately setting fires in parks, fields or woodland
  • repeated fire-related anti-social behaviour
  • evidence of fire damage or attempted fire setting
  • information about individuals involved in deliberate fire setting
  • concerns about locations where fires are regularly being started.

Reports can be made anonymously.

In an emergency, or if a fire is currently burning, always call 999 immediately.

 

If you see a wildfire

  1. Move to a safe location away from the fire and smoke.
  2. Call 999 immediately and ask for the Fire and Rescue Service.
  3. Provide as accurate a location as possible. Use the what3words app or Ordinance Survey coordinates if you can.
  4. Don't attempt to tackle the fire yourself.
  5. Follow any advice provided by emergency services.
  6. Don't assume someone else has already reported the fire. Early reporting can significantly reduce the impact of a wildfire.

 

For more information about wildfire safety and prevention, visit:

Wildfire Aware Prevention Advice (National Fire Chiefs Council)

Prepare (GOV.UK)

 

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