Be aware of Met Office UK weather warnings. The Met Office will warn against extreme heat.
If you see a wildfire, reach a safe place and then call 999 immediately. Provide as much information as possible about the fire’s location and its direction of travel.
Make sure you have adequate insurance. Consider where you would go, and stay, if an emergency forced you away from home.
Tune into the local media for further information about ongoing wildfires. Follow the advice of the emergency services. This may include instructions to evacuate.
We all have a responsibility to protect the countryside from wildfires. You can play a part preventing wildfires by:
- Following the Countryside Code when using parks, waterways, coastal areas and countryside. Be cautious with BBQs and do not light fires. You should leave no trace of your visit – this includes taking your litter home and otherwise damaging or disturbing nature.
- Being sensible in the countryside. Follow signs that tell you where you can and cannot go. Never use sky lanterns – they can cause wildfires, injure livestock and pollute the environment.
- If you oversee controlled / prescribed burning to manage your land, be cautious. You can find out how to burn legally and safely.
- If you think your site or land is vulnerable to wildfire, contact Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service for advice and guidance.