Bedfordshire residents urged to avoid bonfires due to very high wildfire risk
Very High risk warning from local fire service and councils
Bedfordshire residents are being urged to avoid outdoor bonfires and garden fires as the region faces a "Very High" risk of wildfires according to the Fire Severity Index.
The combination of prolonged dry weather and record-breaking temperatures in June and July has left local grasslands and vegetation particularly vulnerable to fire outbreaks.
Fire crews have been grappling with a marked increase in call-outs due to outdoor fires, and local authorities are warning that Bedfordshire is not immune to the wildfire threat affecting communities across the UK.
Mark Garrett, Head of Protection and Response at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said; "These incidents are often avoidable and can take considerable time and resources to contain due to the exceptionally dry conditions across Bedfordshire.
"We are urging residents to think carefully about their actions and help prevent avoidable fires this summer by avoiding bonfires and other unnecessary outdoor fires."
As part of the joint appeal, all three Bedfordshire local authorities are encouraging residents to make use of alternative waste disposal options rather than burning garden waste.
Councillor Nicola Gribble, Portfolio Holder for Environment at Bedford Borough Council said; "We strongly advise against bonfires during the hot summer period and encourage residents to safely dispose of waste through local recycling facilities and collection services."
Councillor Adam Zerny Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council said; “It only takes a single spark to ignite dry grass or vegetation, and what may seem like a small incident can quickly escalate into a large fire with devastating consequences for people, property, wildlife and the environment.
“By taking simple precautions and thinking carefully about our actions, we can all play a part in keeping our communities safe during this high-risk period."
Councillor Tahmina Saleem, Leader of Luton Council said; "Household waste recycling centres offer a safe and responsible way to dispose of larger garden waste items, while home composting can help residents recycle organic material and support healthier gardens throughout the summer."
Residents are also reminded to take extra care when enjoying outdoor spaces by disposing of smoking materials responsibly, avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in areas of dry vegetation, and reporting fires immediately by calling 999.