Bedfordshire residents urged to avoid bonfires as wildfire risk remains very high

The fire service has teamed up with local authorities to urge residents to avoid outdoor bonfires and garden fires as the county faces a very high risk of wildfire.

Bedfordshire is currently experiencing a ‘Very High’ wildfire risk, according to the Fire Severity Index, with fire crews experiencing a significant increase in incidents involving bonfires and other outdoor fires. With major wildfires currently affecting communities across the UK, local authorities are warning that Bedfordshire is not immune to the threat.

The combination of record-breaking temperatures during June and July and a prolonged period of dry weather has left grassland, vegetation and open spaces particularly vulnerable. In these conditions, it can take just a single spark for a fire to spread rapidly and become difficult to control.

Mark Garrett, Head of Protection and Response at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said:

“We are now seeing the effects of a long, hot summer. Our crews are dealing with a noticeable increase in call outs to outdoor fire-related incidents.

“These incidents are often avoidable and can take considerable time and resources to contain due to the exceptionally dry conditions across Bedfordshire.

“We are urging residents to think carefully about their actions and help prevent avoidable fires this summer by avoiding bonfires and other unnecessary outdoor fires.”

As part of the joint appeal, all three Bedfordshire local authorities are encouraging residents to make use of alternative waste disposal options rather than burning garden waste.

Councillor Adam Zerny Leader of Central Bedfordshire Council said:

“With the current dry conditions, we are asking everyone to be mindful and responsible when spending time outdoors. It only takes a single spark to ignite dry grass or vegetation, and what may seem like a small incident can quickly escalate into a large fire with devastating consequences for people, property, wildlife and the environment. By taking simple precautions and thinking carefully about our actions, we can all play a part in keeping our communities safe during this high-risk period.”

Residents are also reminded to take extra care when enjoying outdoor spaces by disposing of smoking materials responsibly, avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in areas of dry vegetation, and reporting fires immediately by calling 999.

For more information on wildfire safety and prevention, visit the Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service website.