Lead Wildfire Officer Richard Hawley says “When we initially deployed onto the moor we found several seats of fire, with a disposable barbeque nearby. While we can’t confirm 100% that this was the cause, it does seem a likely reason. This wildfire has been extremely difficult to control due to the large quantity of fuel, fire supportive weather and challenging terrain.”
Moorland fires can spread quickly and flare up again, due to the fire being ‘deep seated in the peat’ which means that even if it appears the flames are out, significant heat remains under the moorland. This incident was made more difficult as the location of the fire was miles away from any water sources, meaning crews had to run several kilometres of hose, in full protective equipment to reach it.
Richard adds “The crews have worked so hard – we’ve had around 50 firefighters up there – it’s been a tough job. Moorland fires always require a big resource, which means firefighters and fire engines are taken away from their local station area. We can manage this thanks to careful coordination from our brilliant control room operators, but it’s not an ideal situation for anyone across West Yorkshire.
“We really want people to enjoy our beautiful countryside, especially when the weather is so lovely, and the schools are broken up – but we are reminding people not to ever take barbeques onto our moorland. Take a picnic, have fun, but be responsible! As you can see, one barbeque caused so much devastation – it’s not worth it.”
Richard Bailey - Coordinator for the Peak District Moorland Group said “We are all relieved to at last see some better summer weather at last, but please heed the messaging of #BeMoorAware even with all the rain and sodden ground conditions, the vegetation has dried out and coupled with large outbreaks of heather beetle damage, which has left much of our heather lacking sap, a dropped match or BBQ can spell disaster for our moorland areas. All visitors need to be aware of the dangers of summer wildfires, any anti-social activities should be reported immediately.”
Cllr Scott Patient, Calderdale Council’s Deputy Leader, said “Now that the summer weather is finally here, with many people out and about enjoying the beautiful local countryside, we’re urging everyone to take care of our moorlands.
“We’ve seen the devastating impact of wildfires on moorland across the region. It’s so important that we do all we can to protect our distinctive environment, wildlife and their precious habitats, which are destroyed by these preventable fires.
“We work with organisations like West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, as part of the Calderdale Community Safety Partnership, to raise awareness of the dangers of moorland fires and how to prevent them. We have updated our advice signage in key areas.”
Jo Hudson, General Manager for the National Trust in West Yorkshire said, “Sincere thanks for all the hard work from those involved in tackling this fire. It is devastating to see the damage caused to the moor and ongoing impact to wildlife. Our ranger team and volunteers regularly monitor the moorland at this time of year to spot any signs of fire and ask for your help in calling 999 if you ever see smoke”.
As well as the devastation to communities, wildlife and the environment West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service would like to remind the public that a public spaces protection order (PSPO) is in place on our moorland. If you take flammables onto the moor you could be prosecuted and fined. Both Council Wardens and West Yorkshire Police will deal robustly with anyone breaching the PSPO given the devastation that fires cause to communities, wildlife and the environment. If you see a fire or someone using a BBQ on moorland, please dial 999 and ask for the fire service.
Below are some simple steps you can take to help protect the wildlife and moors.
- Clear up and take your rubbish home after picnics
- Observe all signs and notices – they are there for a reason
- Follow The Countryside Code
- Don’t leave glass bottles. Not only can they hurt people and animals, but they can magnify the sun’s rays and start a fire
- Never throw lighted cigarette ends onto the ground, or out of the window of vehicles or trains. Always ensure that they are completely extinguished and disposed of responsibly.
- Never be tempted to light a fire in the countryside and only barbecue in authorised areas
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service would also like to place on record a sincere thank you to all our partners who have assisted in this operation, including, but not limited to; The National Trust, RSPB, West Yorkshire Police and Yorkshire Water alongside Peak District Moorland Group gamekeepers and farmers.