Fire and Rescue service send plea as wildfires strike Newcastle and UK

The warning comes as the effects of this week’s record-breaking heatwave are still being felt
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Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service are reminding locals how to help prevent wildfires as post-heatwaves blazes break out across the UK.

On Monday night, the Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) received a massive 120 calls as a wildfire broke out in Scotswood, Newcastle.

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After record-breaking temperatures across the UK this week wildfires have also broken out in London, Kent, Cornwall and Pembrokeshire.

Fire services across the country are reminding the public to behave safely with grass and green spaces much drier than usual.

NFRS has asked locals not to light campfires or use barbecues in the county's countryside.

Wildfire Lead Rob Stacey said in a statement on Monday: “It’s already been a busy year and we need everyone to be careful whether they’re in the hills, woods, parks or the coast.

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"We've had six wildfires already, which is more than in the whole of last year and we’re concerned the dry conditions could lead to more.

"Some of the fires have been big and covered large areas. We recently had one at Holy Island which has burned a site of special scientific interest.

"And while people may feel the risk is lower now some areas have received a bit of rain, as we all know, in reality there has been very little and it will become hot and dry again and any water that fell will very soon evaporate. The risk remains high and the risk will increase further again over the coming days.

"Our advice is simple - we urge those wishing to enjoy our beautiful countryside to take care and do so safely. Take a picnic, not a BBQ."