WITH heathland and forest fires becoming more common in Dorset, partnerships are being made to raise awareness of wildfires during the soaring summer temperatures.

Large banners have been placed around sites reminding everyone of the risks, reminding all visitors that campfires and barbecues are not allowed on heathland sites, thanks to a partnership between The Urban Heaths Partnership (UHP), Litter Free Dorset (LFD) and Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS).

Whether deliberate or accidental, heathland and forest often suffer from incidents of wildfire, and they are becoming more common. On average, Dorset is subject to 107 heathland and forest wildfires a year.

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Disposable barbecues being left behind when still hot are a know cause of these fires, as are campfires and the campaign aims to reduce this risk by encouraging people to choose alternatives.

Paul Attwell, Team Manager at Urban Heaths Partnership said: “Heathland fires are devastating to people, wildlife and property, and working in partnership we are trying to reduce the number and size of such incidents, but we won’t succeed without the help of everyone who visits these sites.

“So, we ask that you bring a picnic not a BBQ and if you see a fire then get to safety and call 999, don’t wait for someone else to make the call.”

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The campaign also highlights the ban of barbecues and fires on heathland, in forests and in many other high-risk areas across Dorset, including Wareham Forest where a fire in 2020 started from disposable barbecues devastated 220 hectares of forest and heathland.

UHP is joining with emergency service colleagues and partner agencies to remind the public to protect our environment this summer and avoid having fires or barbecues on our heathland or forests. The effect can be devastating not only to our nature and wildlife, but to nearby homes and properties too.

Group Manager Dave Adamson from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “While the warm, dry weather forecast for the coming days is most welcome, especially with the summer holidays arriving, it does significantly increase the risk of wildfire. Disposable barbecues left behind while still hot, and campfires that aren’t extinguished properly, are common causes of fires in the open, so we would urge people not to use these while out and about in our beautiful countryside.”