Be wildfire aware: Simple steps to protect Surrey’s countryside this summer

As hot, dry weather increases the risk of wildfires, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service and the Surrey Nature Partnership are urging visitors to help protect the county’s precious heathlands, wildlife and communities.

“Wildfires can cause devastating damage to our countryside, wildlife and local communities, often taking years to recover.”

That’s the message from Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, which has joined forces with the Surrey Nature Partnership to remind everyone that a few simple actions can make a big difference to keeping the countryside safe this summer.

Increasing temperatures and prolonged dry conditions are placing Surrey’s green spaces at greater risk of fire. Important heathland habitats including Chobham Common, Hankley Common and Blackheath Common are particularly vulnerable. These landscapes are home to rare wildlife including Nightjars, Dartford Warblers and other protected species that depend on this fragile environment.

Most wildfires in Surrey are caused by human activity and are entirely preventable.

The Surrey Nature Partnership, which includes Surrey Wildlife Trust, Surrey County Council, the Forestry Commission, The Woodland Trust, the National Trust, Thames Basin Heaths Partnership and Surrey Hills National Landscape, is encouraging everyone visiting the countryside to follow a few simple steps:

– Swap BBQs for picnics. Do not use disposable barbecues, open fires or camping stoves on Surrey’s heathlands or grasslands.

– Dispose of all smoking materials safely and never leave them behind.

– Take litter home or use bins where provided, as discarded rubbish can pose a serious fire risk as well as harming wildlife.

If you see a fire

– Report it immediately by calling 999 and asking for the Fire Service.

– Give as much information about the location as possible.

– Do not attempt to tackle the fire yourself. Move to a safe distance and follow emergency advice.

Wildfires have become an increasing threat across Surrey in recent years, damaging important wildlife sites including Chobham Common, Whitmoor Common and Barossa.

In 2022, a major wildfire devastated around 500 hectares of Pirbright Ranges, an internationally important heathland that could take more than a decade to recover.

Nicola Buckland, Communications Officer at Thames Basin Heaths Partnership, says: “Wildfires can cause devastation to lowland heathland habitats and decimate populations of slow-moving animals such as reptiles and ground-nesting birds. We appeal to all visitors to ‘Be Wildfire Aware’ and support us in helping protect these rare landscapes.”

Find out more about protecting Surrey’s countryside at the websites of Surrey Fire and Rescue Service and the Surrey Nature Partnership.

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