The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is urging the public to take extra care outdoors as fire and rescue services continue to respond to multiple significant wildfires across the UK amid ongoing hot, dry and windy conditions.
There are currently 19 active wildfire incidents recorded on the National Resilience wildfire reporting system for England and Wales, with fire and rescue services tackling a combination of large moorland and agricultural fires.
Severe wildfire risk remains
Although wildfire conditions are expected to ease slightly in some areas this week, the latest assessment shows a severe wildfire risk remains across large parts of England and Wales, with some locations continuing to face an extreme level of risk.
Dry vegetation, low humidity and persistent winds mean fires can still ignite easily and spread rapidly, increasing the pressure on emergency services.
Major incidents declared
North Wales Fire and Rescue Service has declared a major incident in response to multiple large fires, while Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service and West Midlands Fire Service have activated Operation Willowbeck in response to the high volume of emergency calls.
In several areas, neighbouring fire and rescue services have also been called upon to provide mutual aid, with national resilience teams deployed to help manage the scale and duration of incidents.
European wildfires highlight growing threat
The warning comes as wildfires continue to cause devastating impacts across parts of Europe. Recent fires in Spain have resulted in multiple fatalities, large-scale evacuations and widespread environmental damage.
NFCC Chair, Phil Garrigan, said: “Fire and rescue services are currently responding to multiple significant wildfires across the UK, with challenging conditions helping fires to spread quickly and over large areas.
“When vegetation is this dry, it only takes one spark to start a fire. What may begin as a small incident can escalate at speed, placing communities, firefighters and the environment at risk.
“We are strongly urging everyone to take extra care while enjoying the outdoors. Avoid using disposable barbecues in parks, moorland, countryside areas and other open spaces, never discard cigarettes on the ground, and make sure any litter is taken home.
“Wildfires can cause immense damage to landscapes, wildlife, agriculture and local communities, while also placing significant pressure on emergency services. A few simple actions can make a huge difference in helping to prevent fires before they start.”
