Forestry England asks people to help keep forests safe during the heatwave
With temperatures soaring and conditions becoming increasingly hot and dry, Forestry England are asking everyone to take extra care when visiting the nation’s forests.
Lizzie Hartshorne, Recreation Manager at Forestry England for the Central District, said: “Woodlands, such as Chambers Farm Wood, Willingham Woods and Stapleford Woods, are a great place to escape the heat and enjoy some shade, but right now they are also at a much higher risk of wildfire. Even the smallest spark can quickly turn into something serious.”
The UK is currently experiencing an intense heatwave, with temperatures widely reaching the mid to high 30s and potentially approaching 39-40°C in some areas. Conditions are not only exceptionally hot but also very dry, with prolonged sunshine, low rainfall, and high pressure dominating much of England and Wales. Warm nights and high humidity are adding to the strain, while vegetation and ground conditions are becoming increasingly parched - significantly raising the risk of wildfires across the country.
The simple steps that Forestry England are asking forest visitors to follow are
Don’t bring BBQs. Campfires are also not allowed in the nation’s forests
Pack a picnic instead and enjoy the outdoors safely
Always take your litter home and dispose of it responsibly
Andy Harvey-Coggins, Operations Manager for Central District at Forestry England, said: “Items like drinks cans, glass bottles, and cigarettes that aren’t fully put out can easily start fires. In these conditions, it only takes one small mistake to cause significant damage, potentially destroying large areas of woodland and harming wildlife.”
By making small, responsible choices, we can all play a part in protecting the forests we love - now and for the future. Let’s work together to keep our countryside safe this summer.”
Forestry England say there are also ways to help even when you’re not visiting a forest. Illegal fly-tipping is a growing problem, particularly in quiet rural areas. Dumped waste can become a fire risk, especially in places where a fire might not be spotted quickly. If you need to dispose of waste, always use a licensed waste carrier.