West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service has warned wildfire risks are 'exceptionally high' on Thursday due to heat

The fire and rescue service have issued a warning that wildfire risks are high on Thursday (August 13th) due to temperatures peaking in parts of Sussex at 36°C.

A spokesperson for West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said: “The Fire Severity Index is exceptionally high across parts of West Sussex on Thursday.

"This measures how severe a fire could be, if a wildfire were to break out.

Fire crews worked ‘throughout the night’ to bring a wildfire under control at a beauty spot in Sussex. Photo: Contributed

placeholder image — Fire crews worked ‘throughout the night’ to bring a wildfire under control at a beauty spot in Sussex. Photo: Contributed

“The combination of soaring temperatures and prolonged dry weather significantly increases the risk of wildfires, which can spread rapidly and cause damage to homes, countryside, wildlife and local communities.

“With further warm weather forecast this week, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging all residents to take extra care to minimise the risk of a fire breaking out.”

Many wildfires have already happened across the region, the service has issued advice on how people can reduce the risk of accidentally starting a fire by:

Not using disposable barbecues in the countryside or on areas of dry grass.
Fully extinguishing cigarettes and disposing of them responsibly.
Keeping barbecues well away from trees, shrubs, fences and sheds, and placing them on a stable, flat surface.
Keeping a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of emergency.
Keeping glass bottles, mirrors and other reflective objects out of direct sunlight.
Taking litter home and disposing of waste responsibly.
Choosing a picnic instead of a barbecue where possible.
Moving to a place of safety and calling 999 immediately if a fire is discovered.

Howden Insurance in Horsham have also issued advice on reducing wildfire risks while at home.

Victoria Morby, Branch Manager said: “While many people enjoy the sunshine, prolonged periods of hot, dry weather can have serious consequences for homes, land and local communities.

"The Environment Agency has described the current situation as a 'flash drought', caused by a combination of very low rainfall and high temperatures.

“Dry conditions can significantly increase the risk of wildfires, particularly near grassland, heathland and farmland. Most wildfires in the UK are linked to some form of human activity, so it's important to take extra care outdoors. Avoid lighting barbecues, fire pits or campfires near dry vegetation and only use them in safe, designated areas. Never leave them unattended and always make sure they are fully extinguished afterwards.

“Homeowners can also make their properties more resilient by clearing gutters and roof valleys of dry leaves and debris and repairing damaged roof tiles. Owners of thatched properties should be especially vigilant, as many policies include specific conditions around barbecues, fire pits and other naked flames near the home. Understanding and following these requirements is essential to reducing fire risk and ensuring cover remains valid.

"Move combustible materials such as log piles, compost heaps and garden waste away from buildings and fences. If you live near open countryside, keep grass trimmed and well maintained, as shorter grass is less likely to support fast-moving fires.

“Ensure your house name or number is clearly visible from the road to help emergency services locate your property quickly if needed.”

For more information about fire risks or to report a fire visit: https://www.westsussex.gov.uk/fire-emergencies-and-crime/west-sussex-fire-and-rescue-service/