Northumberland County Council is warning residents and visitors of the risk of wildfires this summer as the weather heats up.
As part of its ‘Love it Like its Yours’ campaign, with Visit Northumberland and other partner organisations, the council is welcoming people to the county whilst reminding them to act responsibly.
With its sandy beaches and stunning National Park, Northumberland is a popular destination throughout the school holiday season. However, its areas of natural beauty are some of the most vulnerable when it comes to the devastating impact of wildfires. Last year, the region’s countryside was scorched by a total of 15 wildfires, one of which burned through five hectares of woodland and took the emergency services 11 days to put out. When it comes to these incidents, the four most susceptible areas are woodlands, moorlands, farmlands and dunes.
Paul Hedley, Chief Fire Officer at the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service, is urging 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.
“The Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service is proud to be the UK’s wildfire lead, providing valuable training to fire services across the UK as well as Europe. However, despite our best efforts we still need people to be vigilant.
“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 Authority, works across the region’s most at risk terrains and is keen to promote the council’s message. She explained: “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. Each year, it devastates me to see the impact that wildfires have on the area. I would urge visitors and locals to ‘Love it Like its Yours’ and avoid lighting campfires and leave the BBQs at home.”
Councillor Gordon Stewart, Cabinet Member for Looking after our Communities and Chair of the Fire Authority said: “This is just the beginning of the summer season, the weather will always play its part in wildfires but there are actions we can all take to help prevent these devastating incidents.
“We’re urging visitors to act responsibly. Please don’t have fires or BBQs and if you spot smoke or flames, make sure you’re safe and call 999 immediately. By following simple guidance, we can all help protect the county’s wildlife and local communities.”
Greg Gavin, Northumberland County Council's Head of Neighbourhood Services, added: “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.”