DEVON and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are reminding people to remain ‘extremely vigilant’ to help reduce the risk of uncontrolled moorland fires amid a period of dry weather.

Uncontrolled wildfires in sensitive areas like Dartmoor can cause long–lasting damage to wildlife and have a significant impact on the landscape, the fire service says.

Wildfires also put livestock and members of the public at risk.

Watch Manager Ian Donovan said: ‘We are asking people not to use barbecues in dry, grassy areas, to take extreme care when disposing of cigarettes and matches and to take all litter home when they leave.

‘Great care should also be taken with camping stoves and fuel which are always best placed on flat stones wherever possible.’

The Met Office this week issued an amber warning for fire severity across parts of England, following the sunniest March on record.

Dry conditions are expected to continue into the Easter holidays.

With an increased risk of wildfires, the fire service are requesting people consider the following:

• Avoid using disposable barbecues in dry, grassy areas;

• Never leave fires unattended and ensure they are fully extinguished;

• Always put cigarettes out properly before disposing of them;

• Dispose of rubbish responsibly—sunlight reflecting off glass can ignite fires.

‘In the event of seeing a fire the public are asked to report it quickly to the fire service by phoning 999 and provide information that can help the firefighters find the location or use (what3words)’ a spokesperson for Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said.