A warning about wildfires in rural areas, including the New Forest, has been issued by Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS).

With an Amber Wildfire Alert in place throughout most of England and Wales at the start of May, a HIWFRS statement said dry and warm conditions increased the chances of fires in the open spreading out of control. 

“We want to avoid incidents of this kind, for the sake of our communities, precious nature sites and wildlife,” it said.

There have already been fires at Moors Valley Country Park and at Bransgore.

Open Fires, barbecues, including purpose-built and disposable barbecues are banned within the New Forest. Outdoor cooking equipment, including stoves, are also prohibited in the national park.

Anyone failing to comply with these bans can be served with a fixed penalty fine of £100 rising to £1,000 following a prosecution.

HIWFRS Wildfire Lead, Larry Mackrell, said: “It really is vital that people take extra care when visiting our beauty spots and green spaces.

“Fires in the open can cause significant damage to our woods, heaths and countryside. We all want to be able to enjoy being outdoors and a few simple steps can reduce the risk of fire.”

Anyone visiting countryside is urged not to to discard cigarettes and to dispose of smoking materials properly.

Visitors should also remove bottles, glasses and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire.

What to do if you see a fire

• If you do see a fire in the countryside, get to safety and contact the fire service immediately – dial 999
• Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water
• Give a map reference if possible, otherwise give a landmark such as a farm or pub to help locate the fire
• Download the What3Words app on your phone to help firefighters pinpoint incidents
• Estimate the size of the area that’s burning
• Describe the type of terrain (grass, bracken, forest, open moorland etc)
• Evacuate the area as soon as possible

Source: HIWFRS