Countryside visitors asked to play their part in reducing wildfire risk this Easter

Ahead of the Easter holidays, visitors to the Denbighshire countryside are being asked to play their part in reducing the risk of wildfires in the County.

Considering the recent dry weather and increased number of visitors over the Easter period, Denbighshire County Council, Clwydian Range and Dee Valley and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service are issuing advice on how to prevent wildfires from spreading when out in the Countryside.

This is following a significant wildfire incident that prompted a four-day multi-agency operation on the Berwyn range, effecting nearly 350 hectares of moorland on Moel Fferna back in March.

Dawn Docx, Chief Fire Officer of North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said:

“In North Wales, our fire crews have attended over 170 grass and gorse fires since January, with over 40 classed as wildfires.  Many of these wildfires have required multiple crews and officer attendance for hours at a time.

“Our control room staff have also dealt with a significant increase in calls, dealing with both notifications of controlled burning and calls from members of the public reporting these often very visual fires.

“We’re continuing to share important messaging around when burning should take place and sharing safety messaging about how to prevent grass and gorse fires through the Wildfire Wise campaign.

“Help stop wildfires – don’t light campfires, and only use a BBQ where signs say you can. Never leave the BBQ unattended and ensure that it is fully extinguished before you leave.  Clear away bottles, glasses, and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire.

“Taking extra care and adhering to these regulations is crucial for preventing uncontrolled fires and protecting our communities.”

Councillor Alan James, Lead Member for Local Development and Planning, said:

“I’d like to thank everyone involved with extinguishing the substantial wildfire on Moel Fferna last month. This incident highlights the importance of proactive moorland management and the effectiveness of multi-agency collaboration in responding to such challenging events. We are extremely grateful for the swift actions and dedication of all those involved.

“The recent dry weather has left many of the County’s moorland areas dry and at higher risk to wildfire starting. To prevent any future incidents were asking visitors who are planning on visiting any of our AONB sites over the Easter holidays to play their part.

“We ask that visitors do not light any fires or barbecues in open areas and to ensure that cigarettes are fully extinguished and are discarded appropriately along with any litter.

“It is also important that if anyone sees a wildfire, no matter how big or small, they call 999 immediately to report it, providing as much detail as they can about the location and extent of the fire. Reporting wildfires promptly can significantly aid the early response and help prevent escalation.

“We’d like to thank everyone who visits our AONB sites and helps us keep the AONB a safe clean place for everyone to enjoy”.