Police issue wildfire warning after bonfires reported on fells near Lancaster

Police have issued a wildfire warning after bonfires were reported on the fells near Lancaster.

They received reports of fires being lit and having outdoor barbeques taking place on Harrisend Fell on the edge of the Forest of Bowland, as people take advantage of the warm weather.

PC Charlotte Jolleys from the Rural Task Force said: ‘’Whilst we appreciate people are wanting to enjoy the good weather we currently have, we ask that everyone does this responsibly.

‘’The whole of the Bowland Area is currently high risk of wildfire as per the Natural England Fire Severity Index.

‘’Wildfires have the potential to destroy homes, property, landscapes and wildlife, which is why it is vital people are vigilant under these conditions.

‘’Please share this message with friends and family to make them aware also.

‘’If anyone does see any outdoor fires, please report them to us.’’

A spokesperson for Lancashire Fire and Rescue added: ‘’We want people to stop using disposable barbecues in the countryside to reduce the amount of harm caused by wildfires.

‘’Wildfires are easily started and can spread rapidly putting people, property and infrastructure at risk. The terrain makes them challenging to firefight and demands large amounts of our resources, as well as from the resources of our partners.

‘’Lancashire knows only too well the devastating effects of wildfires following a fire on Winter Hill near Bolton in summer 2018 which destroyed 18 square kilometres of moorland. Despite this, we continue to experience avoidable fires in open spaces across the county, causing long-lasting harm to wildlife, habitats, and biodiversity.

‘’The threat to the environment and our communities can be significantly reduced if people enjoy Lancashire’s great outdoors without using disposable barbecues.’’

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