Fire Safety Advice
Living Safely in a Fire Risk Area - Practical UK guidance for residents in woodland, heathland and rural areas
Wildfires in the UK are increasing during hotter, drier periods. They spread fast, threaten homes, and create dangerous smoke conditions. Most are caused by human activity, meaning prevention is possible
We can all help reduce wildfire risks by taking a few easy, everyday precautions. Keeping gardens clear of anything that could ignite, using barbecues only in safe designated areas, and fully extinguishing bonfires or smoking materials all help protect our homes and local woodlands. When out and about, taking litter home, avoiding open fires, and following local signs keeps our shared spaces safe for everyone.
If you ever spot a fire, move to safety and call 999 with a clear location there’s no need to tackle it yourself, as crews will respond quickly. By staying aware, caring for our surroundings, and supporting one another, we help keep our community, neighbours and countryside safe.
Everyday Prevention at Home
Reduce wildfire risks by keeping your property free from ignition sources. Avoid lighting fires in woodland or open countryside, and use barbecues only in designated areas, ensuring they’re never left unattended and fully cooled before disposal. Keep gardens clear of glass and reflective items, dispose of smoking materials safely, and if you use a bonfire, site it well away from anything that can burn, keep water nearby, never use accelerants, and fully extinguish all embers before leaving.
Safe Behaviour When Out & About
Most UK wildfires are caused by human activity, so small everyday actions make a big difference. Avoid open fires when walking, camping or picnicking, and always take litter home especially glass, which can ignite dry vegetation. Stub out cigarettes fully and carry the ends with you if no safe bin is available. Supervise children and help them understand the dangers of fire, and follow all local signage, as access restrictions may be in place during high‑risk periods.
What To Do If You See a Fire
If you spot a fire, get to safety and call 999 immediately. Do not assume somebody else has called always ring 999. Give a clear location using landmarks or What3Words. Don’t try to tackle the fire — grass and woodland fires spread fast. If it’s safe, open gates or help direct crews, and never travel toward a wildfire as it can block emergency access.
Protecting Your Home During High Risk Periods
During high‑risk periods, keep windows and doors closed if smoke drifts in, clear away dry vegetation and anything that could burn, and store gas cylinders safely outdoors. Have hoses or buckets ready in long dry spells, and always follow evacuation or stay‑indoors instructions from emergency services.
West Midlands Fire Service reminds us that many woodland fires start from litter, glass or discarded cigarettes, so looking after our surroundings helps protect everyone. Always fully extinguish barbecues and campfires, never try to tackle a fire yourself, and stay safe while guiding crews in if you’ve called 999.