Message from Devon & Cornwall Police on wildfire risk

Over recent months Devon and Cornwall has suffered from several incidents of wildfire particularly on the moorland areas of Bodmin moor, Dartmoor, Exmoor and other open spaces across the force area.

The Fire service have provided the following information regarding an increased risk of wildfires across the region:

A “Yellow Warning” has been issued by the Natural Hazards Partnership that covers the next 5 days. The met office Fire Severity Index rises to “High” on Thursday. We are returning to drier conditions as we move into April.

Most of the Southwest South and South East of England will be under a yellow wildfire alert for most of this coming week. This remains the case for the Easter bank holiday weekend. Some ignition's are likely, resulting in difficult to control wildfires.

Along with the warm temperatures and dry conditions the peak is likely to be Thursday/Friday and over the weekend after several dry days and with a possible influx of visitors.

The Devon & Cornwall police rural affairs team would ask all recognise this wildfire risk and to help us protect our countryside, wildlife and livestock, reduce ignitions with responsible visits to open spaces, avoiding activities such as outdoor BBQ’s and debris burning. Be alert to other sources of ignition such as vehicles and discarded cigarettes.

Please be alert to suspicious vehicles or individuals that may be responsible for a wildfire and report them to the police by calling 999 in an emergency or by emailing 101@dc.police.uk.

Information can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers by calling 0800 555 111

Thank you