DORSET & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have issued a strong warning fires similar to the Wareham forest fire could happen if people ignore warnings.

The risk of wildfires has now been increased to extreme, which is the highest it can be.

The recent dry weather, combined with more hot days and steady winds forecast, have created a ‘perfect storm’ of conditions for wildfires to take hold.

Alongside this, the easing of coronavirus lockdown restrictions has seen an increase in people getting out into the countryside.

In light of the ‘extreme’ wildfire warnings in place, the Fire and Rescue Service wants residents and visitors alike to protect local heath and woodlands by resisting having any form of barbecue or outside fire whilst enjoying the countryside.

Assistant chief fire officer Byron Standen said: “We do understand that people want to enjoy the good weather while it lasts but it is vital that everyone takes sensible precautions while the ground and foliage is so dry – the destruction of Wareham Forest shows what can happen.

“We are asking people to do things a little bit differently while the risk is so high.

“Please do not take a barbecue or have a campfire, maybe take a picnic instead.

“Just a moment’s thought could prevent a serious fire.

“As a service, we cannot afford to have more incidents like Wareham forest.

“As a community, we cannot afford to lose any more of our natural habitat.”