Fire chiefs have issued advice in a bid to protect the countryside during this prolonged dry spell.

When wildfires do occur, they can be very serious and affect large areas of the countryside. They also take a great deal of resources to bring under control, which impacts the availability of fire engines for property fires and other emergencies.

The Upton Heath fire in Dorset in 2011, for example, damaged approximately 250 acres of the heath and required the mobilisation of 30 fire engines and 11 Land Rovers.

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service says wildfires can ravish the local wildlife, destroying ecosystems in a matter of hours that have taken years to build up. If a wildfire encroaches upon farmland, then crops and farm buildings can be consumed, and homes that border heathland can also be at risk.

At their worst, wildfires can cause death or injury to people. A developed wildfire creates its own wind, which drives it at speeds faster than people can get out of its way.

Steps you can take to avoid starting a wildfire:

  • Avoid open fires in the countryside. If you must have a fire, make sure that you’re in a designated safe area.
  • Put out cigarettes and other smoking materials properly before you leave your vehicle.
  • Do not throw cigarette ends out of your vehicle. They could start a fire and destroy surrounding countryside.
  • Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodlands, as sunlight shining through the glass can cause a fire to start. Take the items home, or put them in a waste or recycling bin.
  • If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately. Do not try to tackle a fire yourself; usually they can’t be put out with a bucket of water. Please call the fire service and leave the area as soon as possible.
  • Ensure that you know your location or a landmark so you can direct the fire service.