As the battle continues to fight the wildfire in Wareham Forest, the Country Land & Business Association (CLA) is calling on the public to take extra care in the countryside due to an increased fire risk caused by the weather.

The CLA has warned that the risk of fire is increased, especially on hillsides, moors and healthland, as warm, dry and windy conditions have elevated wildfire potential across large areas of the country.

In addition, there may be an increase of visitors to the countryside over the upcoming bank holiday weekend, coupled with the Government’s recent easing of restrictions on people’s movements.

This warning comes just days after 28 fire engines and more than 150 firefighters were called to Wareham Forest to extinguish a forest fire. Puddletown Forest also experienced a wildfire at the end of April which destroyed almost 10,000 square metres of forest.

Ann Maidment, CLA Director South West, said: “Large wildfires are thankfully rare. But, when they do occur, can be very serious, affecting large areas of the countryside and can cause untold damage to wildlife, destroying ecosystems in a matter of hours which have taken years to establish.

“We appeal to the public to be extra vigilant when visiting the countryside, do not throw lit cigarette ends out of your vehicle and if you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately.”

Wildfires are capable of devastating farmland, wildlife and their habitats and pose a risk to the lives of people living and working in rural and adjacent communities. Reducing the risk of wildfires is key at this time of year.

There is also an increased fire risk associated with disposable barbecues that are used in the countryside. Barbecues should only take place in sheltered areas well away from combustible material and properly extinguished afterwards.

Ms Maidment added: “It only takes a small spark to start a fire on ground as dry as it is currently, so extra caution must be taken to help protect crops, wildlife and habitats.

“Prevention is better than cure, and especially now when we can ill afford to be putting undue stress on the emergency services.”

If you do see a fire, you are advised not to try and tackle the fire yourself but to alert the emergency services by calling 999, stating as accurately as possible the location of the fire.

Litter Free Dorset have composed a list of approved designated barbecuing spots in the county which is available on their website.