County Derry residents urged to protect people, property and nature from wildfires

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) and Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) are asking everyone to be vigilant about wildfires as we approach the spring and summer seasons.

Wildfires endanger Northern Ireland's landscapes, biodiversity, property, infrastructure, and its people, while also imposing substantial public costs.

Wildfires can have health impacts on peoples respiratory and cardiovascular systems and can also cause injuries and have harmful mental health effects. Children and vulnerable populations may be at increased risk.

Given the inherent wildfire risk in spring weather patterns and the state of upland vegetation, this year a ‘Yellow’ or moderate wildfire risk will be deemed to exist across all areas that contain dead grasses, gorse and heather. This default status will remain until the end of the wildfire season in September unless otherwise upgraded by DAERA.

It is an offence to burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated between 15 April and 31 August in any year.

Restrictions and consent requirements may apply where these activities have the potential to damage an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI). Where a landowner is uncertain about their legal obligations in these matters, they should consult with NIEA before commencing such operations.

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DAERA Minister Andrew Muir said: “We all saw the damage that was done across Northern Ireland last year with devastating wildfires in the Mournes, Slieve Beagh and the Sperrins. I would urge everyone to act responsibly by heeding the advice, remaining vigilant and swiftly reporting to the Police anyone they suspect of maliciously starting fires in our countryside.”

NIFRS Area Commander Ryan Thompson said: “Last year, we responded to a significant number of wildfires throughout the spring and summer months, which placed intense pressure on our Firefighters and our Service. As we approach this period again, we urge everyone to support their Fire & Rescue Service by staying alert to wildfire risks and acting responsibly in the countryside. With everyone playing their part, we can help prevent wildfires before they start.”

PSNI Superintendent Chris Hamill said: "Deliberately setting a wildfire is a criminal offence for which you can face prosecution. Where it is found that a fire has been maliciously started, it will be fully investigated by police, and when identified, those responsible can expect to be arrested and brought before court."

Please heed the following advice:

If you are in the countryside:

• avoid using open fires in the countryside;
• only use barbecues in designated areas and never leave them unattended;
• ensure that barbecues are fully extinguished and cold before disposing of their contents;
• extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly;
• never throw cigarette ends out of car windows;
• be considerate in parking vehicles so as not to impede access by emergency vehicles.

If you are carrying out prescribed burning:

• burn within the legally permitted period for prescribed burning;
• ensure you have the necessary consents or permissions to carry out the prescribed burning;
• ensure Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is notified of the burn and when the burn is completed;
• ensure necessary precautions are in place to contain and manage the burning.

If you see a fire:

• if you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service;
• do not attempt to tackle fires that cannot be put out with a bucket of water;
• leave the area as soon as possible;
• if you see someone setting fires, report it to the PSNI.