Visitors to the North York Moors National Park are being warned of an extreme wildfire risk after weeks of dry weather have left vegetation and woodland tinder-dry.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service says the conditions create a perfect environment for flames to spread rapidly and become uncontrollable, putting lives, property and wildlife at risk.
The service is already under considerable pressure and says any new fire would be a major strain on resources.
People are being urged to take extra care and to avoid any activity which could spark a blaze. This includes:
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Not discarding cigarettes or matches anywhere, including from car windows.
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No barbecues, campfires or open flames in the National Park or surrounding land.
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Not leaving glass bottles or reflective litter, as sunlight can ignite dry vegetation through them.
Dry heather, bracken and grass can ignite as easily as straw, and once burning, the flames can spread deep into peat. These fires can smoulder underground for days, release huge amounts of carbon into the atmosphere and are notoriously difficult – sometimes impossible – to extinguish.
Ben Platt, area manager in the north of the National Park, said:
“In these conditions, even a single thoughtless act can destroy irreplaceable habitats and put enormous pressure on our fire service. Everyone has a role to play in protecting the North York Moors.”
If you see any sign of smoke, smouldering or fire, no matter how small, call 999 immediately and do not assume someone else has reported it.
The fire service says: “Do not give us another fire to fight. The survival of our wildlife, our precious peatlands, and the safety of local communities depends on all of us acting responsibly.”
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