We're urging people to leave the BBQs at home as the weekend approaches.
Recent dry weather has increased the risk of wildfires on the Malvern Hills and Commons that can be started from a single spark from a BBQ or camp fire.
Beck Baker, Community and Conservation Officer said, "We’re pleased to see people enjoying the warmer weather and longer evenings but please do this safely by leaving the BBQ at home."
BBQ’s are not permitted on the hills and commons due to the risk they pose for potentially starting wildfires. Disposable BBQ's are particularly problematic as they can be windblown and, if placed directly on the ground, can damage the important grassland vegetation underneath.
A wildfire on the hills and commons could put the public, grazing livestock and nearby residential properties at risk as well as damaging the nationally important and scarce species and habitats of this special landscape. Each spring and summer BBQs are extinguished and confiscated by Trust staff but unfortunately some result in fire damage to larger areas of land.
Beck added "The majority of wildfires are started by people either accidentally or deliberately and BBQ's pose a high risk. Please leave the BBQ for the garden and take a picnic to the Hills instead."
If you do see a fire, please call 999 immediately. Early detection can prevent a fire becoming much more dangerous, serious, and uncontrollable wildfire.
