Firefighters tackling multiple wildfires across South Wales
In recent weeks, South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS) has been inundated with calls relating to wildfires across South Wales.
Crews have been working tirelessly across our service area to manage and prevent wildfires from spreading and causing further damage and disruption to our communities.
These fires put significant pressure on our operational resources, including our Fire Control and firefighters, as well as posing a risk to life, property and the environment.
As the summer months and dry conditions persist, it is crucial that members of the public are aware of the associated dangers and take the necessary precautions to prevent wildfires.
From the 1 of April to 11 June 2023, SWFRS has responded to almost 400 deliberate grass and wildfires that have destroyed natural habitats and caused significant damage. From 5 June to 11 June 2023 alone, we responded to 75 deliberate wildfires.
Our Fire Crime Unit, in partnership with both South Wales and Gwent Police, have been actively raising awareness of the consequences of deliberate fire setting within our communities.
We urge everyone to be vigilant and report any information of deliberate fire setting to Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.
We also advise that you avoid any controlled burning during these prolonged periods of dry weather.
Group Manager for Newport and Monmouthshire, Matthew Jones, said:
“We have been working tirelessly with our partners to deal with several large deliberate wildfires across South Wales.
“These unnecessary fires have caused severe damage to the Welsh landscape, forestry and wildlife while placing the lives of our firefighters and the public at risk.
“Deliberate fire setting is a crime, and would we urge anyone with information to report this to the police or anonymously via Crimestoppers.”
Executive Director of Operations for Natural Resources Wales, Gareth O’Shea, said:
“We’ve been working with South Wales Fire and Rescue Service as part of our efforts to tackle several wildfires over recent days, using fire management techniques, specialised equipment and vehicles including all-terrain vehicles used to create fire breaks and firefighting helicopters.
“Our partnership work has been consistently effective both in reaction to the wildfires and in the various initiatives we’ve worked on to help prevent wildfires before they start such as the Healthy Hillsides project and Operation Dawnsglaw.
“Wildfires threaten both the people and property of communities, it threatens wildlife and causes huge habitat damage.
“We will continue to work with the fire service to slow the spread of the current fires and safeguard the nearby communities and wildlife.
“Through working together across government, charities, landowners, and our public services we can create a sustainable approach to preventing large scale wildfires, which is imperative in the face of a climate and nature emergency.”
We are committed to protecting our communities and natural environments, but we cannot tackle this challenge alone. We urge residents, visitors, and businesses to join forces with us in safeguarding our region from the devastating impact of wildfires.
Together, we can make a significant difference and ensure the safety and well-being of everyone.
Be mindful of open flames
Avoid discarding lit cigarettes, matches, or any other flaming objects in grassy areas. Dispose of them responsibly in designated containers.
Never leave fires unattended
If you are camping or having a barbecue, ensure that the fire is properly extinguished before leaving the area. Douse it with water, stir the ashes, and repeat the process until there are no embers left.
Avoid unnecessary outdoor burning
Refrain from burning garden waste or any other materials in open spaces. Instead, consider alternative methods of disposal, such as composting or recycling.
Report suspicious activities
If you notice any suspicious behaviour or see someone intentionally starting a fire, contact the Police immediately or report the information anonymously to Crimestoppers 0800 555 111. Your timely reporting can help prevent a potentially catastrophic event.
Stay informed
Pay attention to local weather conditions, particularly heatwaves and drought warnings. Follow advice and restrictions issued by relevant authorities regarding outdoor activities and fire safety.
Educate children about fire safety
Teach children about the dangers of playing with fire and the potential consequences. Encourage them to report any fire-related concerns to a responsible adult.
For more advice, please see our Hot Weather Page.