Fiery Warning: Rural Blaze Risk Soars Across South East
CLA South East is sounding the alarm as wildfire risks spike across the countryside. Warm, dry, and settled weather has turned hillsides, moors, and heathlands into tinderboxes, sparking serious fire outbreaks.
Firefighters Battle Blazes Near and Far
For over a week, crews have been battling fierce fires on Saddleworth Moor, Tameside. Meanwhile, in Buckinghamshire, around 100 firefighters tackled a 500 sq m grass fire in Little Marlow. That blaze spread dangerously close to industrial units, forcing the closure of the A404 due to thick smoke rolling over the road.
Wildfires Threaten Farmland, Wildlife, and Lives
These blazes don’t just scorch the earth—they devastate wildlife habitats, farmland, and put people in rural communities at serious risk. With fire season in full swing, preventing these infernos is crucial.
CLA warns: Don’t flick your cigarette butts or toss down smouldering rubbish. Careless litter — especially bottles and glass shards — can ignite deadly fires in a flash.
Barbecue Risks and Sky Lantern Bans
The rise in disposable BBQs in the countryside is raising eyebrows. CLA members urge all visitors to avoid open fires outdoors unless in safe, sheltered spots clear of dry grass and bushes—and to always fully extinguish afterwards.
The CLA is also calling for a ban on sky lanterns, infamous for causing devastating fires and animal deaths. Yet, the government remains unconvinced, refusing to outlaw them despite the risks. CLA South East represents thousands of local farmers and landowners across Kent, Hampshire, Surrey, Sussex, Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and the Isle of Wight.
Expert Advice: What To Do If You Spot a Wildfire
“We’ve seen the devastating toll these fires take on communities and the environment,” said CLA South East Regional Director Robin Edwards. “We urge everyone to be extra vigilant when outdoors.”
Rob Gazzard, Chair of the South East England Wildfire Group, advises:
- Get to a safe place immediately.
- Call 999 and ask for fire and rescue.
- Give clear details—location, size of fire, any dangers.
- Meet firefighters at a safe entrance and guide them to the blaze.
Be #wildfireaware and help protect our countryside!
