Public urged to help prevent wildfires

With no change in the current warm and dry weather for the foreseeable future, there remains a very high risk of wildfire across Northern Ireland. The NI Fire and Rescue Service is reporting a sharp increase in the number of gorse fires. Fires can take hold and spread quickly on dry ground, with potentially devastating consequences.

Given the risk, those living and working in rural communities, particularly in isolated areas, are asked to remain vigilant. Also, please check on elderly and vulnerable neighbours and, of course, always follow the advice and instructions of the NI Fire and Rescue Service.

Under the current conditions, any ignition source in hazardous fuels may give rise to wildfire development. Such a fire can spread very quickly, especially in areas with dead grasses, gorse, forestry and heather. Large areas can become engulfed in a very short period of time and may be hazardous to human life, property and wildlife.

Members of the public and land managers should refrain from the use of open fires at this time and ensure that other potential ignition sources are carefully minded (or guarded) in order not to cause grass or gorse fires during this period of increased fire risk.

The Department advises at this point that all outdoor use of fires, barbecues and other open ignition sources be avoided on forest lands and in other high risk areas until further notice.

Extra caution is also advised with respect to hay making and the use of machinery and other agricultural activity that may also present a risk of fire in dry vegetation on cultivated land in the current conditions.

Operators of such equipment should ensure that the machinery is well maintained and that any heat insulation is in place, is intact and maintained to help reduce the risk of fire from exhausts or other exposed hot engine parts which may lead to ignition of the surrounding vegetation in these very dry conditions.

For more information visit the nidirect website.