Residents and visitors in Northumberland have been warned of the risk of wildfires this summer as temperatures increase and the busiest tourism season approaches.
There have been no recorded wildfires in Northumberland so far this year, but last year, the county's countryside was scorched by a total of 15, one of which burned through five hectares of woodland and took the emergency services 11 days to put out. The blaze at Redesdale Forest saw gallons of water brought by helicopters to assist teams on the ground.
When it comes to wildfire incidents, the four most susceptible areas are woodlands, moorlands, farmlands and dunes. And in the North East this year, firefighters have already been called out to a fire at Prestwick Carr which was tackled by neighbouring force Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service, with Northumberland offering advice to residents in Ponteland as the smoke was blown towards the village.
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Paul Hedley, chief fire officer at the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, has urged people to take extra precautions as we enter the hottest months of the year. He said: "Wildfires have a devastating impact on wildlife, local communities and the natural environment.
"It can take years for an affected area to recover, and these incidents place a significant strain on emergency service workers, who risk their lives to protect the wellbeing of others. Human error is by far the biggest cause of these incidents, so we are asking everyone to avoid lighting barbecues or campfires this summer.
"Also, remember to take your rubbish home - in warm weather, something as simple as a piece of broken glass could start a blaze. No matter how insignificant it may seem, this advice really could save a life."
Margaret Anderson, senior ranger at Northumberland National Park said that seeing wildfires in one of the region's most spectacular landscapes devastates her. She said: "When it comes to campfires and barbecues, these seemingly controlled can flames burn deep into the ground and can reignite long after you’ve gone home - particularly during periods of low rainfall.
"Northumberland is a beautiful county, and a place where many people come to explore nature and make happy memories. I would urge visitors and locals to avoid lighting campfires and leave the BBQs at home."
Greg Gavin, Northumberland County Council's head of neighbourhood service, advised people to pack a picnic instead of a barbeque. He said: "In the past month alone, we have seen the devastating impact that wildfires have on our region.
"We always look forward to welcoming visitors from near and far, but with the Met Office predicting a warm summer ahead, we ask that you follow the guidance of the experts and help keep Northumberland safe. Pack a picnic, not a barbeque."
Representatives from the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, Northumberland County Council and Northumberland National Park have issued guidance and advice as part of the 'Love it Like its Yours' campaign, which aims to encourage people to make the most of the county in a responsible manner.
