Grass and Wildfires

Wildfires are uncontrolled and unpredictable. They can spread very quickly.

What to do if you discover a wildfire

• Make sure you're in a safe place (away from vegetation and smoke). Stay calm and call 999 immediately.
• If you're in your car, close all windows and vents.
• When you call 999 be as precise as you can about the location, the size and any other information. The free what3words app can help you pinpoint your location, so download it now.
• Don't try to tackle the fire yourself.
• Stay well away from wildfires as fire can smoulder or spread underground.

How to prevent grass fires  

Anything burning can start a grass fire. Cigarettes and barbecues are commonly to blame.   

Barbecues 

Barbecues can cause fires when smouldering ash and embers are carried by the wind onto areas of dry grass.

• Don't have barbecues in parks and public spaces. 
• Be aware that children, animals, balls or anything else may knock over barbecues, increasing the risk of grass fires. 
• Never leave barbecues unattended and put them out properly after you’ve finished using them.  
• Put your barbecue on level ground and keep it well away from anything that may catch fire (for example sheds, fences, trees, tents). 
• If you’re barbecuing near dry grass have a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergency use. 
• Don’t barbecue on balconies. The wind may carry smouldering ash towards nearby grassland.
• If you decide to use a disposable barbecue – put it right out and make sure it’s cooled before you throw it away. Long after they have been discarded they can still cause fires as they retain heat after use.

Cigarettes 

If a cigarette that hasn’t been put out properly is dropped on dry ground it can easily cause a grass fire.

Even a cigarette thrown from a car window can start a fire, as many roads run alongside grassland. 

Glass bottles 

Glass can magnify the sun and start a fire. So make sure you don’t leave any glass bottles lying around in parks and open spaces. Take your litter home with you if nearby bins are full.