People are being warned that the risk of wildfires remains high in the Lake District.
Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service said it is putting temporary ‘extreme wildfire risk’ notices in place across several main visitor locations in the Lake District.
It added that the signs are being put up as a result of the continued dry and warm weather which has created extremely dry vegetation that is showing signs of significant stress.
Signs will appear in car parks, on noticeboards, near footpaths, and on fence posts. When the wildfire risk has reduced, the signs will be taken down.
The Lake District National Park Service has also confirmed today that the national park is still on amber alert for a wildfire.
A spokesperson for the service said: “The ground is very dry as a result of the recent hot spell, and just one spark could cause devastation for habitats and wildlife, as well as threatening safety.
“Pick up your rubbish including any glass in direct sunlight and do not light campfires and barbeques.
“If you see a potential risk, please report it quickly to Cumbria fire and Rescue Service.”
How can I help prevent a wildfire?
Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service said most fires in the UK are caused by human activity.
To help prevent a wildfire, you can:
- Don’t have open fires/campfires or barbecues
- Put out cigarettes completely
- Take all litter home
- Take care when parking – don’t block access roads, tracks or gates, and be aware hot exhausts on dry grass or ignite fires
What should I do if I see a wildfire?
If you spot a wildfire, get to a safe place and call 999.
Make sure you also immediately alert emergency teams if anything or anyone near the fire is in immediate danger.
Give as much detail as you can about the location of the wildfire, using apps like What3Words is most helpful.
Describing the direction of the fire and what is burning is also helpful.
