Firefighters Issue Wildfire Warning As Third Heatwave Grips Sussex

Firefighters are urging people to take extra care outdoors as hot, dry conditions raise the risk of wildfires across Sussex during the UK's third heatwave of the year.

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is reminding residents and visitors to do their bit to protect the county's countryside, with an amber heat-health alert in force across the South East from 09:00 on Wednesday until 21:00 on Sunday.

Nathan Cross, Head of Prevention at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, said the combination of prolonged dry weather and high temperatures means fires can spread quickly.

He said:

"We know people will want to enjoy this exceptionally warm weather and make lots of memories outdoors with their loved ones.

"However, it is important this is done safely as during periods of dry and sustained warm weather, the chance of wildfires spreading rapidly is high.

"Being a predominantly rural county, we have a lot of countryside and green spaces that need protecting.

"We are urging people to play their part in preventing devastating incidents from happening."

The warning comes after wildfires broke out at two Surrey nature reserves over the weekend, with firefighters tackling separate incidents at Whitmoor Common and Brentmoor Heath.

To reduce the risk of fires, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is advising people to:

• Keep barbecues well away from trees, hedges, sheds and other flammable materials.

• Have a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of emergency.

• Allow disposable barbecues to cool completely before soaking them with water and disposing of them safely.

• Dispose of cigarette ends responsibly.

• Take all litter home, particularly glass bottles, which can intensify the sun's rays and increase the risk of fire.

Anyone who discovers a fire is urged to move to a place of safety immediately and dial 999.