Farmers are being urged to take extra care as an amber wildfire alert has been issued for Dorset and Wiltshire.

More unseasonally warm and dry weather is expected this week, leading to the first amber wildfire alert of 2022 issued by Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS).

DWFRS group manager Jason Moncrieff said: “While the warm and dry spring weather is very welcome after the winter, it does increase the risk of fires spreading quickly if something happens to cause ignition.

"We are urging local farmers to take extra care, as sparks from hot machinery can easily lead to a field catching fire, and we ask everyone enjoying our beautiful countryside and coastline to take extra care and be vigilant with anything that could lead to a fire starting.”

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An amber alert means that, should a wildfire be experienced, it could spread quickly and easily due to the dry conditions.

The risk is greatest on large areas of open land, such as heathlands, fields and even cliffsides.

The fire service is asking landowners and land managers to be prepared for fires, where possible, and ensure that fire breaks are cut and well maintained, with any cut grasses and vegetation removed from the site.

If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service. Early detection can prevent it from developing into a large wildfire incident.

When calling the fire and rescue service get to a safe place, note the fire location (apps such as What3Words can help if you’re not sure), call 999 and meet the fire crews at the access point.

Farmers are urged to keep their machinery well maintained, and to follow DWFRS's advice on staying fire safe, which can be found at dwfire.org.uk/business-fire-safety/fire-risks-on-farms.