Wild Fire Prevention

Being surrounded by hundreds of acres of beautiful countryside places a responsibilty upon all of us to use the countryside with respect and to minimise the risk to it from wildfires during periods of drought.

To find out more about wildfires and how to prevent them occurring please read this advice issued by Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service.

These simple tips will help you to stay safe in the countryside and protect it for others to enjoy:

• Don’t start campfires in the countryside

• Never take barbecues or lit charcoal of any kind to enclosed spaces for example tents

• Never leave barbecues unattended and dispose of them appropriately

• Don’t leave glass bottles in direct sunlight as this could start a fire

• Don’t start a fire or barbecue in areas that strictly state this is prohibited such as the New Forest National Park

• Make sure cigarettes are out and correctly dispose of them

• Take home your litter or make sure you put it in a bin

• Keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby in case of emergency

• Leave plenty of room around your barbecue

• Set up barbecues on level ground which is away from dry grass, bushes, fences, tents and other structures

If you see a fire

• If you do see a fire in the countryside, get to safety and contact us immediately – dial 999
• Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water
• Give a map reference if possible, otherwise give a landmark such as a farm or pub to help locate the fire
• Download the What3Words app on your phone to help us pinpoint incidents (iPhone / Android)
• Estimate the size of the area that’s burning
• Describe the type of terrain (grass, bracken, forest, open moorland etc)
• Evacuate the area as soon as possible

The Countryside Code

By following the Countryside Code you are able to enjoy the beautiful green spaces we are blessed with across Hampshire and Isle of Wight, whilst also protecting the environment and wildlife, to ensure everyone is able to stay safe in our countryside.

RESPECT EVERYONE

• Be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside

• Leave gates and property as you find them

• Do not block access to gateways or driveways when parking

• Be nice, say hello, share the space

• Follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available

PROTECT THE ENVIRONMENT

• Take your litter home- leave no trace of your visit

• Do not light fires and only have barbecues where signs say you can

• Always keep dogs under control and in sight

• Dog poo – bag it and bin it in any public waste bin or take it home

• Care for nature- do not cause damage or disturbance

ENJOY THE OUTDOORS

• Check your route and local conditions

• Plan your adventure- know what to expect and what you can do

• Enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory