Visitors urged to prevent wildfires in Staffordshire’s country parks
A Met Office Amber alert for ‘extreme heat’ is in force
Last updated 25th Jun 2026
As the heatwave continues, people across Staffordshire are being urged to do their bit to prevent wildfires and stay safe in the sun.
With a Met Office Amber alert for ‘extreme heat’ in force until Saturday, visitors to the county's country parks are being reminded not to bring barbecues or litter because of the wildfire risk.
According to figures from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, there has been a 70% increase in outdoor fires.
Last month, the county council condemned “thoughtless” behaviour after a newly installed viewing platform at Brindley Heath was damaged by several barbecues and littered with glass bottles.
Hayley Coles, Staffordshire County Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture, said:
“The weather has been very hot and dry recently, and these conditions mean the wildfire risk is currently very high.
“We’re asking people to enjoy our country parks responsibly and be alert to the wildfire risk. It only takes one thoughtlessly discarded cigarette, barbecue or glass bottle to start a fire that can quickly get out of hand and devastate local wildlife and habitats.
“If a fire were to happen in one of our country parks, the landscape might never fully recover, and the cost of any remedial work would fall to local taxpayers.
“It’s great that we have such wonderful country parks in order to be able to enjoy the sun, but we just need to be mindful of our actions and ensure we’re doing everything we can to prevent fires and preserve these spaces for future generations.”