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19/03/2025
NIFRS Warns Of Wildfire Risk
The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) has issued a warning to the public, urging them to take precautions against wildfires as dry and windy conditions are forecast for the coming week. NIFRS emphasises that these fires are often caused by human behaviour and are therefore preventable.
NIFRS Group Commander Paul Morrow highlighted the dangers: "Every year our Fire & Rescue Service is faced with fires in the countryside. These fires can be unpredictable and spread fast, especially during dry weather." He also stressed the devastating impact on the environment, wildlife, and human life, as well as the strain placed on emergency services.
"Very often these fires are started deliberately," Commander Morrow said, reminding the public that intentionally setting a wildfire is a criminal offence. He urged anyone witnessing such activity to report it immediately by calling 999.
The NIFRS has issued the following advice to prevent wildfires:
• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.
• Extinguish cigarettes and smoking materials properly.
• Use barbecues safely and never leave them unattended.
• Ensure barbecues are fully extinguished before disposal.
• Do not leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland.
• Park vehicles considerately to allow emergency vehicle access.
• Keep children away from lighters, matches, and open fires.
• Do not attempt to tackle large fires; leave the area and call 999.
• Report anyone setting fires to the PSNI.
The NIFRS urges the public to be vigilant and responsible, reminding everyone that "the responsibility of preventing fires belongs to all of us".
NIFRS Group Commander Paul Morrow highlighted the dangers: "Every year our Fire & Rescue Service is faced with fires in the countryside. These fires can be unpredictable and spread fast, especially during dry weather." He also stressed the devastating impact on the environment, wildlife, and human life, as well as the strain placed on emergency services.
The NIFRS has issued the following advice to prevent wildfires:
• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.
• Extinguish cigarettes and smoking materials properly.
• Use barbecues safely and never leave them unattended.
• Ensure barbecues are fully extinguished before disposal.
• Do not leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland.
• Park vehicles considerately to allow emergency vehicle access.
• Keep children away from lighters, matches, and open fires.
• Do not attempt to tackle large fires; leave the area and call 999.
• Report anyone setting fires to the PSNI.
The NIFRS urges the public to be vigilant and responsible, reminding everyone that "the responsibility of preventing fires belongs to all of us".
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