Increase in outdoor fires leads to renewed warning

A wildfire on Hankley Common in July is estimated to have destroyed 2.6 hectares of common land.

A fire service has said it has seen a 200% increase in outdoor fires it has responded to compared to the same time last year.

Surrey Fire & Rescue Service was called to 120 outdoor fires in June alone.

As a result, the service has renewed its warning to residents to be aware and help prevent wildfires.

"We are encouraging residents to swap barbeques for picnics this season," a spokesperson said.

They added: "The wider campaign, running all summer, aims to highlight wildfire risks in open spaces and how simple actions can help keep Surrey prepared.

"Outdoor fires can start easily and spread quickly, and unfortunately, many are caused by barbecues that haven't been properly extinguished."

A wildfire on Hankley Common in July is estimated to have destroyed 2.6 hectares of common land, the service said.

Another at Valley Wood Place, near Chobham Common, damaged one hectare of land – roughly the size of two football pitches.

Advice to the public offered by the service to prevent outdoor fires includes:

• Avoid burning garden waste or starting bonfires

• Dispose of cigarettes properly

• Leave the area if you spot a fire and call 999.

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