‘Risk of wildfire is high’: warning issued for Dartmoor as dry weather continues

Dartmoor National Park Authority has issued a public warning over the increased risk of wildfire as warm, dry weather continues across the region.

In a post shared on Facebook on June 19, the authority said Dartmoor is “incredibly dry” and urged visitors to help reduce the risk of fires by leaving BBQs at home, avoiding campfires, and disposing of litter and cigarette ends responsibly.

“The risk of wildfire is high,” the post read. “We’ve all seen the devastation a wildfire can have on dry moorland.”

People are also being asked to take glass bottles home, as sunlight shining through glass can spark fires.

The authority reminded the public that a fire is not needed to enjoy Dartmoor’s sunsets or walks across the moor.

“If you spot a wildfire, contact the fire service immediately on 999 with the exact location,” the park team advised.

The message ends with a plea to visitors to protect the landscape: “Leave nothing but footprints and make nothing but memories when visiting Dartmoor.”

The warning comes as forecasters predict continued dry conditions for the region, heightening the risk of accidental fires.