Moors on fire alert after dry weather

RECENT DRY weather has led to an increased risk of moorland and forest fires in the North York Moors, park officials have warned.

The North York Moors National Park Authority will put fire risk warning signs up on key sites advising people what they can do to help to reduce the risk. The signs will remain in place until the fire risk passes, and visitors are being asked to be vigilant.

A reduction in rainfall, coupled with very dry ground vegetation such as heather and bracken, has prompted the decision by the national park authority to put the North York Moors on fire alert.

Even if rain is forecast, it may not be enough to make a difference to conditions on the moors.

Bernie McLinden, senior ranger (coast) at the North York Moors National Park, said: “Past experience has shown us that under these types of conditions, moorland fires can spread extremely quickly causing significant damage to the landscape and its wildlife.

“The message we want to give to people is please do come and enjoy the North York Moors and, as the majority of moorland fires can be prevented, please take extra care and follow the advice on the signs, such as avoiding lighting fires and barbecues and to not discard cigarettes, matches or glass bottles including throwing cigarette ends out of car windows.”

If people see a fire, they should report it quickly to the fire service by dialling 999. Made up of moorland, ancient woodland and historic sites, the North York Moors became Britain’s sixth national park in 1952.