Fire chiefs have issued a wildfire safety warning ahead of expected warmer, drier conditions
Fire chiefs are urging the public to take extra care during the upcoming bank holiday, with forecasts indicating warm and dry weather that can increase the risk of wildfires and accidents around open water.
The National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) has renewed its appeal for vigilance as wildfire activity continues to rise. NFCC National Resilience data shows more than 270 wildfires have already been recorded in England and Wales. By November, fire and rescue services had responded to just over 1,000 wildfires in 2025, exceeding the 994 incidents recorded in 2022, previously the worst year on record.
Officials said many wildfires are preventable and are often caused by everyday behaviours such as disposable barbecues or carelessly discarded smoking materials.
Fire data from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) shows fire and rescue services in England responded to around 40,000 more incidents in the year ending December 2025 compared with the previous year, driven largely by a 29% rise in fires linked to outdoor incidents.
The NFCC is also warning of increased drowning risks during warmer weather, as more people spend time in and around water. Data from the Water Incident Database Water Incident Database, published by the National Water Safety Forum National Water Safety Forum, recorded 193 accidental drowning fatalities in the UK in 2024, with May seeing the highest monthly total at 28 deaths.
NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan said, “With the risk of wildfires increasing as we go into the warmer months, we’re asking everyone to take a few simple precautions to help keep themselves, their communities and the environment safe this summer.
“Wildfires can start quickly and spread fast, but small actions make a big difference. Avoid using disposable barbecues in parks or open countryside, take care not to drop cigarettes or leave glass behind, and follow local fire safety advice. If you see signs of fire, call 999 immediately.
“Fire and rescue services are already dealing with a high number of incidents, and by working together we can help reduce the risk and ease that pressure. Taking care outdoors helps protect homes, wildlife and open spaces for everyone.
“We’re also encouraging people to stay safe around water. Cold water can be a shock, even on warm days. If you see someone in trouble, call 999, encourage them to float, and throw something that floats to help.”
Officials also highlighted prevention advice, including avoiding disposable barbecues in open countryside, not discarding cigarettes or glass, and following local restrictions. The public is also urged to report fire risks immediately and contact police or Crimestoppers if arson is suspected.
Water safety guidance includes the “Phone, Float, Throw” approach promoted by the Crimestoppers Crimestoppers supported safety messaging and the National Water Safety Forum. It advises calling 999, encouraging floating, and throwing flotation aids to anyone in difficulty.
The NFCC also reinforced “Float to Live” guidance, encouraging people who find themselves in trouble in water to tilt their head back, relax, control breathing, and float until help arrives.