When the weather is dry it is easy for fires to spread.
These fires are often in areas where access is extremely difficult and water supply is limited - should the fire get out of control, this can place tremendous pressure on resources, with firefighters tied up for a considerable length of time trying to bring them under control. These fires can put homes, livestock and the lives of crews and residents at risk as firefighters are kept from attending genuine emergencies.
Please follow the guidelines below if you are planning a controlled burn:
- Ensure you have sufficient people and equipment to control the fire
- Check wind direction and ensure there is no risk to property, roads, and wildlife
- If a fire gets out of control, contact the fire and rescue service immediately giving details of location and access
- It is illegal to leave a fire unattended or to have too few people to control it.
- Follow the Heather and Grass Burning Code (opens in a new window / tab)
- Always ensure a fire is completely out before you leave it and check next day to ensure it has not reignited.