Wildfires
During periods of hot weather and little rain, the New Forest National Park is at risk from wildfires. There are simple steps you can take to make sure you don’t accidentally start a fire that could have a devastating effect on the Forest and its environment.
What is a wildfire?
A wildfire is an uncontrolled, unwanted or unplanned fire. It can develop very quickly and rapidly spread across very large areas. Its behaviour is unpredictable and it can change direction very quickly and jump across roads and rivers.
How do wildfires start?
Wildfires do not start by themselves; virtually all wildfires are started by people, either accidentally or deliberately.
How can I prevent starting a wildfire?
There are simple steps you can take to make sure you never accidentally start a fire:
- Only barbecue at the following designated sites where running water is available: Bolderwood, Wilverley and Blackwater-disposable barbecues only on the metal plates fixed to picnic tables
Anderwood, Blackwater, Bolderwood, Hatchet Pond, Linford Bottom, Whitefield Moor and Wilverley car parks-raised non-disposable barbecues only
Or hire a barbecue site at Wilverley or Anderwood car park (to book call 023 8028 3141 or visit www.forestry.gov.uk/newforest) or at Lepe Country Park (to book call 023 8089 9108 or visit www.hants.gov.uk/lepe). - If you do have a barbecue make sure it is extinguished and disposed of properly.
- Do not discard cigarette ends out of your car window when driving or drop them on the Forest floor when walking.
- Never start a campfire in the open Forest, it can get out of hand very quickly and spread underground.
- Never drop glass of any kind on the Forest floor; it can sometimes start a fire.
- Report any fly-tipping or abandoned vehicles; they may be a fire risk
- Keep matches and lighters away from children and ensure they understand the dangers of fire
- Report anyone who is responsible for starting a Forest fire
- Look out for signs which indicate high fire risk areas, be especially careful in these areas and do not barbecue
- Flying lanterns are not allowed to be released in the New Forest without prior agreement from the Forestry Commission on land they own or manage. The Forestry Commission does not permit any form of fire except in designated or agreed locations and the lanterns add the problems of litter and are potential threats to wildlife/domestic animals.
What to do if I spot a wildfire?
If you spot a wildfire call 999 immediately, try to give your exact location, including any landmarks and if possible meet the fire engine to give directions.
Fire risk - For a day to day update of the fire risk in the New Forest visit the Forestry Commission website
