Warm weather sparks amber wildfire warnings from both Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

A WARNING that barbecues are banned in the New Forest has been sent out as the warm weather sparked amber wildfire alerts across Hampshire and Dorset.

The caution by Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service specifically concerns this Thursday, while Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service’s is for “the coming days”.

An amber alert means the dry and warm conditions increase the chances of out-of-control blazes.

Hampshire’s service said it wanted to avoid such potentially devastating incidents to protect communities, precious nature sites and wildlife.

HIWFRS wildfire lead Larry Mackrell said: “Barbecues, campfires and bonfires can very easily spread out of control and drier, warmer weather increases the risk of wildfires, so it really is vital that people take extra care when visiting our beauty spots and green spaces.

“Fires in the open can cause significant damage to our woods, heaths and countryside. We all want to be able to enjoy being outdoors and a few simple steps can reduce the risk of fire.

“Always discard of cigarettes properly, put litter and glass bottles in a bin or take your rubbish home, and please pack a picnic, not a disposable barbecue.”

People are warned that, along with cigarettes, carelessly discarded glasses, glass bottles and broken glass can magnify the sun’s rays and start a fire.

Fires or barbecues should only be lit in designated areas using facilities provided, but barbecues are not allowed anywhere across the New Forest National Park.

HIWFRS’s advice is echoed by DWFRS, with disposable barbecues and campfires also banned in many parts of Dorset.

DWFRS group manager Graham Kewley said: “While the warmer weather is welcome after such a wet start to the year, it does mean that foliage will now be dry, and this can result in a greater risk of fires spreading if something happens to cause ignition.

“We would urge anyone going out and about in our beautiful countryside this weekend to take extra care and avoid having campfires on heathland or in woodlands.”

Safety tips include never leaving campfires or barbecues unattended and extinguishing them properly after use.

Those visiting the beach should not set off flares, have campfires or light barbecues as these can easily lead to gorse and foliage on the cliffs catching alight.

Landowners and land managers are advised to prepare for fires, where possible, and ensure fire breaks are cut and well maintained.

Farmers are urged to keep machinery well maintained.

Parents are asked to talk to youngsters about the dangers of playing with and lighting fires, and report any illegal fire setting and those responsible anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Those who see a fire in the countryside should get to safety and call the fire service immediately by dialling 999.

They must not try to tackle fires that cannot be put out with a bucket of water.

A map reference should be given to the fire service if possible, otherwise a landmark such as a farm or pub to help locate the blaze.

People are advised to download the What3Words app on their phones to help pinpoint incidents.

More safety guidance can be found at dwfire.org.uk/heath-fires-and-countryside-safety