New campaign to prevent wildfires across North Yorkshire
The ‘Don't Spark Disaster’ campaign encourages responsible behaviour in the countryside
Last updated 25th Jun 2026
A new campaign has launched aimed at reducing the risk of devastating wildfires in North Yorkshire.
The ‘Don't Spark Disaster’ project aims to encourage responsible behaviour in the countryside and highlight the simple actions that people can take help prevent wildfires.
It's being delivered by North York Moors National Park Authority in partnership with North Yorkshire Council, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, Forestry England and North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service.
The campaign comes as organisations continue to deal with the long-term impacts of last year’s wildfire on Fylingdales Moor, which became the largest wildfire in the history of the North York Moors National Park.
Jim Bailey, Chair of the North York Moors National Park Authority, said:
“Most wildfires are preventable. That's the simple but crucial message at the heart of this campaign.
“The fire may have happened a year ago, but we continue to deal with the aftermath on a daily basis. Farmers and graziers have been unable to return sheep to parts of Fylingdales Moor, while the landscape remains visibly scarred by both the fire and the large earth trenches that were dug to stop it spreading further.
“We urge everyone to think carefully about their actions when enjoying the countryside this summer. A moment's carelessness can have consequences that last for generations, but a few simple precautions can help prevent another devastating wildfire from happening in the first place.”
North Yorkshire Council’s leader, Cllr Carl Les, said:
“We welcome visitors here in North Yorkshire and our stunning landscapes attract millions of people every year, but we need everyone to understand the risks and take care of the environment.
“A barbecue in the sunshine or a carelessly discarded glass bottle or cigarette can have serious impacts for people and places for years to come, as we saw last year.
“This campaign is vital to making sure that we do not see a repeat of the biggest wildfire we have ever witnessed in North Yorkshire.
“Our message is clear – please come and enjoy all that North Yorkshire has to offer but be aware that careless actions can cause a catastrophic impact on our communities and the natural environment.”