Risk of wildfires across East Sussex ‘high’ amid dry weather

East Sussex Fire & Rescue Service said following a number of dry days and fires in the East Sussex countryside, within the National Park, fire risk has increased to ‘high’.

It urged residents to help protect the countryside during the warm spell.

A spokesman said: “Whilst we recognise the importance of outdoor exercise for health and wellbeing, we would ask that you are considerate in the disposal of rubbish and cigarettes, ensuring that cigarettes are extinguished appropriately and all rubbish placed in bins or taken home with you.

“If you see a fire in the countryside dial 999 immediately.

“Do not attempt to tackle the fire. Give a map reference if possible or land mark and wait for the arrival of the fire appliance or ranger in a safe location near a road or car park. Estimate the size of the fire if possible.

“Don’t tackle fires yourself. Always leave it to the professionals.”

The spokesman issued the following tips to residents out enjoying exercise or having a barbeque or picnic in the countryside.

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside

• Sunlight shining through glass can start large fires – take glass bottles/jars home or put them in a waste or recycling bin

• Keep young children and ball games away from barbecues

• Extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly

• Only use barbecues in suitable and safe areas and never leave them unattended

• Ensure that your barbecue is fully extinguished and cold before disposing of the contents

• Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows – they can ruin whole fields of crops

• Only picnic in designated areas

• Obey safety signs

If anyone has information about illegal fire setting and those responsible please report them anonymously to Crimestoppers online or by calling 0800 555 111.

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