With temperatures set to rise this weekend West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service [WYFRS] is urging residents and visitors to 'Be Moor Aware' and take extra care on Ilkley Moor to help prevent wildfires.
With highs of 26C predicted in some area, and people wanting to enjoy our moors and countryside over the Bank Holiday weekend and school half term, WYFRS want to remind everyone that small actions can quickly escalate into serious incidents, putting people, wildlife and emergency services at risk.
Residents can meet local firefighters at the Cow & Calf on Saturday, 23 May, crews will be happy to chat about ways to keep yourself and our countryside safe.
Dry grass, moorland and woodland can ignite easily in warm conditions. Fires can spread rapidly, especially in open landscapes, and are often difficult to control once established.
Mick Rhodes, Wildfire Lead at WYFRS says:
“Wildfires present significant challenges for our crews, often requiring long periods of firefighting in remote areas and rapidly changing conditions. During recent incidents, firefighters have worked tirelessly alongside partner agencies to protect communities, wildlife and infrastructure, using specialist wildfire capabilities and equipment to access difficult terrain safely. However, with warm and dry weather increasing the risk, these fires can spread quickly and are often preventable.
"We’re asking the public to act responsibly when visiting moorland areas, simple actions such as avoiding disposable barbecues and taking litter home can make a vital difference in reducing the risk of devastating fires."
Some safety tips:
-
Do not use disposable BBQs or light fires on moorland, in parks or other open spaces.
-
Never drop cigarettes or matches on the ground, particularly in dry grassland areas.
-
Glass bottles and other litter can magnify sunlight and start fires. Always dispose of waste responsibly.
-
Stick to designated paths as this reduces the risk of accidental ignition and helps protect sensitive habitats.
-
Do not park on dry grass, as hot exhausts can easily start a fire.
If you see a fire, or signs of one, call 999 immediately and ask for the Fire Service. Early reporting can prevent a small incident from becoming a major wildfire.
For more information please visit https://www.westyorksfire.gov.uk/safety/wildfire
Doggy Days set to return to Ilkley Lido
Foley Films returns to Ilkley with new autumn programme
Spellman Care named Health and Wellbeing Business of the Year
Runners for Great North Run raise over £17,000 for Yorkshire Air Ambulance
Sir Gareth Southgate helps raise £23,000 for Martin House at Ilkley golf event
Ashlands Bonfire to celebrate 40th anniversary with biggest-ever fireworks display
Off-peak roadworks begin on A65 near Ilkley
Ilkley businesses become Gold Sponsor of Clarke Foley Community Hub
Ilkley takeaway named among Tripadvisor’s top 10% worldwide
McDonald's near Ilkley seeks earlier opening hours
Ilkley care home resident celebrates 106th birthday
Fresh handmade bread coming to Three Little Birds in Ilkley
Former Ilkley bistro owner teases new venture on the High Street
New Ilkley travel agency to celebrate opening with special event
Mental health campaign launched in memory of son
Yorkshire writers in spotlight at Ilkley Literature Festival
Annual golf day raises £4,383 for Airedale Hospital
The Ilkley Cow enters search for UK's Favourite Local Business
New Ilkley care home announces opening date following 11 month refurbishment
Ilkley team raises £3,300+ for The Principle Trust in Three Peaks challenge
