Firefighters in North Yorkshire have reminded people to take exta care while visiting the countryside over the weekend, with the recent period of dry weather hugely increasing the risk of fires breaking out.

Every year, thousand of acres of countryside and wildlife habitats are destroyed by fires started deliberately or as a result of carelessness.

The recent dry weather means the Fire Severity Index for the countryside is classed as high, which means an increased risk of a fire starting. Visitors to the countryside are advised to be careful.

People are reminded to extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly, and not to throw cigarette ends out of car windows. Fire chiefs say it would be sensible to avoid lighting barbecues or open fires on or near moorland areas, and if a barbecue does occur children and ball games should be kept away from it. It should also be fully extinguished and cold before the contents are disposed of.

Bottles and glass should not be left in woodland areas, as sunlight shining through glass can start fires. Glass should be disposed of appropriately.

There have been various moors fires within North Yorkshire in the last ten years, varying from minor grassland fires that require only a small amount of equipment to major fires that require large amounts of equipment and personnel. Firefighters face numerous difficulties when it comes to dealing with countryside fires. Access can often be difficult and water supplies might not be up to the task.

Such fires are also a drain on resources say firefighters. By being careful in the countryside and not taking risks, potentially dangerous and destructive fires can be prevented.

Carl Boasman, North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service station manager, said: “Our aim is to prevent fires before they start. We are looking to the public to help us while they enjoy the countryside safely and responsibly.”

‘’We want people to enjoy the countryside, but we do want to remind them of some vital safety points.”