No barbecues at Staffordshire's country parks this bank holiday
County council highlights wildfire risks in hot weather
As hot and dry weather continues into the May bank holiday weekend, Staffordshire County Council is reminding residents to avoid lighting open fires at the county's country parks.
This cautionary advice follows an increase in outdoor fires, with the Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service responding to approximately 30 preventable incidents during the Easter weekend alone.
Wildfires pose a significant threat to wildlife and habitats annually, particularly in high-risk areas such as Cannock Chase National Landscape.
To reduce the risk of wildfires, visitors to the countryside are being urged to avoid using disposable barbecues and ensure cigarettes are properly extinguished and disposed of.
Residents should also take their litter home or utilise provided bins, avoid leaving glass bottles that can ignite fires, and keep matches and lighters out of children’s reach.
Sarah Bentley, Head of Environment and Countryside at Staffordshire County Council, emphasised the vulnerability of country parks to fire damage:
"Our country parks are beautiful places to spend time, especially in warm weather, but they can also be extremely vulnerable to fire. It only takes one small spark to cause significant damage to habitats and wildlife."
The council is urging everyone to act responsibly, leaving barbecues at home and disposing of litter carefully to protect these special spaces for all to enjoy.