Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has launched new lightweight firefighting gear and specialist off-road vehicles in a big push to tackle the soaring number of wildfires. The move aims to boost wildfire response and firefighter safety ahead of a blistering hot 2025 summer season across Kent and Medway.
Cutting-Edge Wildfire Kit: Light, Breathable, and Heat-Proof
KFRS’s brand-new personal protective equipment (PPE) is specially designed for the brutal outdoor heat of wildfires. Unlike traditional bulky fire gear made for indoor blazes, this kit is lightweight, breathable, and heat-resistant. That means less exhaustion and a lower risk of injury when crews battle long-lasting wildfires.
Mark Gosling, Group Manager for Operational Development at KFRS, said: “Amid the UK-wide increase in 1, Kent is no different. This vital investment allows our crews to operate more effectively in extreme heat while safeguarding their wellbeing.”
Wildfire Threats Soar – Kent Steps Up
Wildfires are ramping up nationwide, with incidents nearly doubling from 240 (Jan–Apr 2022) to 460 in the same period of 2025. Kent’s firefighters dealt with 69 wildfires in August 2022 alone during a scorching UK heatwave. Over the last three years, KFRS has tackled 160 wildfires, most accidental, sparking upgrades in both gear and training.
New Off-Road Vehicles Ready for the Toughest Terrain
Along with the new PPE, KFRS has added specialist off-road wildfire vehicles to its fleet. These tough units pack:
- 240-litre water tanks
- Wildfire blowers
- Foam suppression systems
- Brush cutters for dense undergrowth
Built to reach remote rural spots where normal fire engines can’t go, these vehicles are a game-changer in tackling wildfires fast and effectively.
How You Can Help Prevent Wildfires
KFRS urges the public to do their bit to stop wildfires from sparking. Key tips include:
- Dispose of cigarettes safely
- Never leave bonfires or barbecues unattended
- Use barbecues only in designated zones
- Take all litter home—glass and cans can ignite fires
- Avoid lighting campfires in dry countryside areas
Mark Gosling added: “If you see a wildfire, move to a safe place and call 999 immediately. Give clear details about the location, terrain, and fire size.”
