Wild Fires !

Wild Fires !

Wildfire Risk: Help Protect Our Community

With the recent spell of hot, dry weather, the risk of wildfires across parks, grassland, woodland and open countryside is significantly increased. A small fire can spread rapidly, putting people, wildlife, homes and businesses at risk.

West Mercia Police and partner agencies are asking residents to remain vigilant and take simple steps to help prevent wildfires.

How Wildfires Start

Many wildfires are caused accidentally by human activity, including:

Discarded cigarettes or matches.

Disposable barbecues.

Campfires and fire pits.

Glass bottles left on grassland.

Fireworks and lanterns.

Deliberate fire-setting and anti-social behaviour.

Even a small spark can ignite dry vegetation and spread quickly, particularly during windy conditions.

If You Spot a Wildfire

✅ Call 999 immediately and ask for the Fire Service.

When reporting a fire:

Give the exact location if known.

Describe the size of the fire.

State whether people, homes, vehicles or wildlife are at risk.

Follow any instructions given by emergency services.

⚠️ Do not attempt to tackle a large fire yourself. Move to a safe location and keep well away from smoke and flames.

How You Can Help Prevent Wildfires

Never discard cigarettes, matches or smoking materials onto the ground.

Avoid using disposable barbecues in parks, woodland or open spaces.

Take all litter home, especially glass bottles and cans.

Do not light campfires on open land.

Ensure garden bonfires are safe, controlled and fully extinguished.

Supervise children and educate them about the dangers of playing with fire.

Report suspicious behaviour involving fires or deliberate fire-setting by calling 101 or reporting online.

Be Aware of the Impact

Wildfires can:

Threaten lives and properties.

Cause significant environmental damage.

Kill wildlife and destroy habitats.

Lead to road closures and disruption to local communities.

Tie up valuable emergency service resources.

Report Concerns

If you witness suspicious activity linked to fire-setting, please report it to West Mercia Police on 101. In an emergency, or if a fire is actively burning, always call 999.

Working together, we can help protect our local green spaces, wildlife and communities from the devastating effects of wildfires.

Stay safe and stay vigilant. 🚒🔥

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Message Sent By
Brandon Jones
(West Mercia Police, Police Community Support Officer, Greenlands & Lodge Park)