By Joshua Robinson –
With the Easter holidays approaching West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) are reminding the public to enjoy the countryside safely. Each year wildfire destroys thousands of hectares, having significant effects on the economy, environment, and social fabric of rural areas.
Crews are undertaking extra training to refresh wildfire capabilities and tactics, travelling up to moorland across West Yorkshire to test equipment and make sure firefighters are as prepared as possible for any potential fires.
However, the service is reminding the public on what they can do to help protect the countryside. The public are being asked to clear up and take rubbish home after picnics (especially glass bottles), to follow the countryside code, never throw lighted cigarette ends onto the ground, or out of the window of vehicles.
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There’s also a reminder that Public Space Protection Orders (PSPO’s) are in place on moorland which bans barbeques, fires, sky lanterns, fireworks, and other dangerous items from moorland across the district. If anyone is seen on moorland with barbeques or fireworks, dial 999 and ask for FIRE.
Wildfire Officer Andy Flynn said: “Typically when Easter arrives, and the weather starts getting drier and warmer we do unfortunately see an increase in moorland fires. We don’t want to stop people in West Yorkshire enjoying our beautiful countryside – but we do want everyone to enjoy it responsibly.”
“Little things like taking rubbish home can make a big difference, and obviously not BBQing or lighting fires on our moorland. These types of fires cause pollution, kill vulnerable wildlife and can take up a huge amount of firefighting resource, so we really want to avoid these types of fires in 2024.”
If a fire is spotted on moorland:
- Move to safe place and call the Fire Service on 999 immediately, provide as much details as possible including size of fire, location, and terrain.
- Don’t tackle the fire.
- If you haven’t already, self evacuate the area as soon as possible – these fires can spread fast.
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