Residents and visitors urged to reduce wildfire risk in the countryside
Visitors to the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley are being urged to act responsibly this summer to help reduce the risk of wildfires.
The National Landscape alongside the three local authorities of North East Wales are issuing the advice following hot, dry weather and recent wildfire outbreaks in North Wales.
Countryside Rangers are ready to respond to reports of wildfires, and visitors are asked to follow fire prevention advice at nature reserves, country parks and other outdoor public areas:
- Do not light fires or BBQs, pack a picnic
- Completely extinguish all cigarettes
- If you see a wildfire or smell heavy smoke, get to a safe place right away.
- Call 999 and ask for the fire service. Be ready to give an exact location or landmark.
Visitors are also encouraged to use established campsites with facilities to help reduce pressure on teams monitoring popular countryside sites.
Cllr Alan James, Lead Member for Local Development and Planning at Denbighshire County Council, said: “With the prolonged dry weather, we are particularly concerned about wildfire risks linked to camping in remote areas.
“Grass, bracken and heather fires can spread quickly in dry, windy conditions. Please avoid open fires and fully extinguish smoking materials. He added:
“We encourage people to use official campsites and follow site rules. Being sensible during this hot weather will help keep visitors safe, support our teams and reduce pressure on resources.
He added: “It is particularly important that we all follow this guidance given the current pressures on the North Wales Fire and Rescue Service which is dealing with wildfires across the region at present.”
