Help prevent moorland fires this summer

Visitors to Dartmoor are being urged to help prevent wildfires as the dry weather continues.

Of particular concern are discarded cigarettes, Chinese lanterns and disposable barbecues.

Broken glass, camping stoves matches and lighters are also highlighted as potential dangers.

The call for vigilance has come from the Dartmoor Wild Fire Liaison Group, a body representing land owners, the Dartmoor Commoners’ Council and Dartmoor National Park Authority (DNPA).

The wider partnership also involves Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Devon and Cornwall Police, Natural England and the Ministry of Defence.

Fire Service lead officer Ian Donovan said: ‘Uncontrolled wildfires in sensitive areas like Dartmoor cause long-lasting damage to wildlife and have a significant impact on the landscape.

‘Wildfires also put livestock and members of the public at risk. We want people to come and enjoy Dartmoor. You can help prevent wildfires by following the advice given by the National Park.’

Rob Steemson, DNPA Community and Landscape Management Ranger, said: ‘It is imperative that visitors help us to care for Dartmoor and not destroy what they have come out to enjoy.

‘Rangers have recently noticed at some popular sites the remains of open camp fires which is an illegal practice under Dartmoor Commons Act Byelaws. 

‘Take extra care with discarded cigarettes, matches, lighters or glass bottles and please do not bring portable barbeques on to the moor during this particularly dry weather.

‘Do not release Chinese lanterns at any time of the year as these not only pose a fire risk but endanger ponies and other stock animals.

‘Great care should also be taken with camping stoves and fuel which are always best placed on flat stones wherever possible. All rubbish should be taken home and disposed of responsibly.’

Anyone spotting a fire is asked to call 999 and provide as much detail about the location as possible.

A wildfire in April damaged 600 Ha on Green Hill and Naker’s Hill, prompting a huge response from firefighters and commoners who helped tackle the flames.

See advice for preventing moorland fires on the Dartmoor National Park website.