Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service have issued advice over the threat of wildfires.

With the weather getting hotter and drier, the risk of wildfires breaking out is aggravated.

The fire brigade has warned: "Wildfires are very dangerous, spread fast, change direction, and threaten wildlife, livestock, domestic animals, the environment, property, and people."

Devon and Somerset issued the following guidance on how you can help prevent wildfires:

  • Take your litter home.
  • Discard of cigarettes carefully. Never throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.
  • Glass in direct sunlight can cause fires - ensure there is none lying around.
  • Don’t have campfires or barbecues in the countryside. Only have them in safe designated areas.
  • Avoid having bonfires in very dry weather. If you must have a bonfire, follow our bonfire safety advice. 
  • Talk to your children about the dangers of playing with fire and matches. Keep matches and lighters stored well away from children and teenagers. 
  • Learn how to reduce the risk of wildfires in hot weather.
  • Read about what to do if you are concerned about potential wildfires.

Members of the public have also been urged to report 'irresponsible behaviour.' A person seen acting 'suspiciously, recklessly or irresponsibly' in the countryside should be reported to the police on 101, or to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

If you are concerned about overgrown grass or vegetation near your home, the fire brigade advises that you contact your local council, and only call the fire department in the event of an emergency.

The public is also cautioned to have a hose pipe or other water source easily available, and to trim back their own hedges, plants, and grass to create space between their property and the problem area.

In the event you see a wildfire while outside, fire brigade advice is to remain clam, ensure you are in a safe location, close all windows and vents if in a car, call 999 and inform the emergency services of your location. A locator app such as Ordnance Survey or What3Words can help with identifying your position.

If you are at home at the time of spotting a wildfire, advice is to:

  • Stay calm.
  • Put yourself in a place of safety - do not try to put out the fire yourself.
  • Keep doors and windows closed but unlocked.
  • Call 999 and inform us of your location. Provide us with as much detail as possible. Including the address, OS or What3Words location.
  • Let us know the best access point to get to the property. If safe to do so, stand by the access point and speak to fire crews when they arrive.

Around 90 per cent of wildfires are caused by human activity either deliberately or by accident. Leading causes of wildfires include campfires, barbecues, bonfires, cigarettes, and arson.