West Sussex wildfire risk remains high, fire crews say
We're urged to be extra careful as the weather remains warm and dry
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging residents and visitors to exercise extra caution outdoors as grass and woodland in Sussex remains at risk of catching alight.
It's warning ongoing warm and dry weather means even minor heat sources like discarded cigarettes, disposable barbecues, or campfires can quickly escalate into major incidents, spreading especially fast during hot, dry, and windy conditions.
It added that the increased risk also puts emergency services under extra pressure - with the advice including not parking cars on dry grass, as the exhaust could ignite it.
Station Manager Matt Gamblen, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service’s Wildfires Tactical Advisor, said "preventing a fire...is always the best approach":
“It only takes a small spark from a discarded cigarette, barbecue, campfire or machinery to ignite dry vegetation which can have devastating consequences.
“It’s not possible to predict exactly where or when a wildfire may occur, which is why we’re continually monitoring weather conditions and working closely with partners, including landowners and local authorities, to prepare for periods of increased risk.
“I encourage residents and visitors to take extra care outdoors, avoid using disposable barbecues in open countryside, dispose of smoking materials responsibly and report any signs of fire immediately.”
We're advised to avoid using disposable barbecues in open spaces, taking litter home -particularly glass bottles that can focus sunlight and start fires - as well as properly extinguishing smoking materials.