Warning of ‘extreme’ wildfire risks over coming days

09 Jun 2023 ARCHIVED (over 3 months old) - view latest news

The recent spell of dry weather has prompted Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) to warn residents and visitors of the high wildfire risk over the coming days. 

The service is reminding the public to ensure they are doing everything they can to prevent wildfires from occurring. 

Partner agencies are also putting up ‘Extreme Fire Risk Notices’ around the county - these are temporary notices that are displayed only when wildfire risk is high. They will be removed when the risk reduces for a period of time. 

 
In this dry weather small outdoor fires can take hold and easily spread. Many outdoor fires start from campfires and BBQs and tackling these fires can prevent NFRS from working on other emergencies, which can ultimately cost lives.   

NFRS advice is simple - If you see a fire while outdoors, call 999 and ask for the fire service. The sooner the fire service know about a wildfire, the easier it is to put it out, and the safer it is for everyone involved.  

Chief Fire Officer Paul Hedley: "The current spell of dry weather means we are very much at a heightened risk of wildfires. 

“And while we want people to come and enjoy our beautiful county, we’re asking all residents and visitors to treat the countryside with respect. 

“Our advice is simple - please do not light any fires whilst out and take a picnic rather than use campfires and BBQ's, which can be devastated by an easily preventable fire.  

We want you to enjoy the beauty of Northumberland, but we want you to do it safely."