Over recent months, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) has responded to a remarkable number of grass and wildfires across our Service area. The combination of prolonged dry weather and strong winds has created highly challenging conditions, allowing fires to spread quickly across large areas of countryside, posing significant challenges for our crews and the communities they protect.
Since 31st March, following the end of the controlled burn season, crews from across our Service area have attended 1299 grass fires. This alarming figure highlights the scale of the challenge and the relentless efforts of our firefighters in responding to these incidents.
These incidents have put an increased demand on our personnel and a huge drain on resources, which have not only been experienced by our Firefighters on the fire ground, but also to our Joint Fire Control Centre (JFC) operators and partner agencies.
Corporate Head of Prevention and Protection, Peter Greenslade said:
“We would like to remind landowners that the period for heather and grass burning under a Burn Plan ended on 15th March (31st March in upland areas). Adhering to these regulations is essential in helping to prevent uncontrolled fires and protect our communities, countryside and wildlife.
“We recognise that, when carried out responsibly and in accordance with a Burn Plan, controlled burning can play an important role in land management, supporting biodiversity and maintaining healthy ecosystems. We are available to provide free advice and guidance to help “ensure this is undertaken safely.
While accidental fires can occur, we continue to see incidents where fires are being started deliberately. These fires place unnecessary pressure on frontline emergency services, divert resources from other incidents and put people, property, wildlife and the environment at risk.
“If you have any information regarding deliberate fires, please contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
“We would also like to thank our operational crews, support staff and Joint Fire Control (JFC) colleagues for their unwavering commitment and tireless efforts throughout this exceptionally busy period.”
Controlled burns are not permitted at this time of year and should be avoided. However, if you are considering one, please contact our Joint Fire Control on 01268 909408.
Remember:
Follow the Heather and grass burning code | GOV.WALES
Check wind direction to avoid risk to property, roads, livestock, wildlife or surrounding vegetation.
Never leave a fire unattended or without enough people to control it.
Inform your neighbours.
Ensure the fire is fully extinguished before leaving.
Have the correct equipment to start and control the fire.
Always contact your local Fire Service if a fire gets out of control.
The Service would like to also remind residents and visitors to Mid and West Wales take extra care during the current dry conditions:
Avoid lighting campfires or other open fires, particularly in rural or grassy areas.
Do not light fires in the garden to dispose of waste – use designated recycling centres.
Barbecues should only be used on a flat, non-combustible surface and never left unattended.
Ensure cigarettes, matches and glass bottles are disposed of responsibly. Dry vegetation can ignite easily and fires can spread rapidly.
Let’s work together to burn responsibly.
Remember – If are out enjoying the countryside and you do come across any suspicious activity, please call CrimeStoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or ring 101. In an emergency, always call 999.
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We want everyone to be #WildfireWise
The #WildfireWise campaign aims to educate individuals on the best practices for avoiding and preventing wildfires in Wales.
By raising awareness about the potential dangers of wildfires, the campaign will encourage people to be more vigilant when out enjoying the countryside and proactive in reporting suspicious activities that can lead to fires.
Many wildfires are preventable and there are some simple steps and changes to behaviour that can limit their number and impact.
For further information in and around controlled burning and wildfire awareness, please visit: www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/campaigns-and-consultations/wildfirewise/
