Islanders urged to help prevent wildfires

The fire service said prevention was key

Islanders have been urged to avoid using barbecues in open wooded areas to help reduce the risk of wildfires in Jersey.

Jersey Fire and Rescue Service said the current risk of a major wildfire was "low", but warned dry and windy conditions could lead to a fire "growing rapidly into an incredibly significant blaze".

Station commander Mark Bailey-Walker said: "We have lots of patches of gorse around Jersey which means these areas are especially at risk. Prevention is key and we are asking everyone to play their part."

The service has asked islanders to avoid open flames, bonfires and discarding cigarette ends on the ground.

The current risk of a wildfire on the island is low

It also warned against leaving a fire or barbecue unattended and to avoid leaving bottles of glass in the countryside, adding "sunlight on glass can start fires".

Mr Bailey-Walker added: "Even when the likelihood of a major incident is low, the impact on our natural environment, wildlife and public safety can be significant."