What You Must Consider Before Responding to a Wildfire
- Andrew Gilruth
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Before heading to a site with a wildfire, moorland managers should carefully assess several critical factors to ensure safety, effectiveness, and compliance with regulations. Key considerations include:
1. Personal and Public Safety
Risk to Life: Ensure that there are no immediate threats to people, including yourself, colleagues, and the public.
Escape Routes: Identify safe exit points in case the fire spreads unpredictably.
Protective Gear: Wear appropriate clothing, including fire-resistant gear, gloves, goggles, and sturdy boots.
Communication: Carry a fully charged radio or mobile phone to stay in touch with emergency services and colleagues.
Weather Conditions: Be aware of wind speed and direction, as fires can spread quickly in strong winds.
2. Fire Behaviour and Spread
Fire Size & Location: Determine how extensive the fire is and whether it is manageable or already out of control.
Vegetation Fuel Load: Assess how much dry vegetation (heather, bracken, gorse, grass) is present to gauge fire intensity.
Topography: Fires spread faster uphill due to rising heat, making terrain a key factor in strategic response.
Wind Speed & Direction: Strong winds can push flames unpredictably, making firefighting efforts dangerous.
3. Legal and Environmental Considerations
SSSI or Protected Land Status: If the site is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), if you take emergency action notify Natural England afterwards (see here for advice).
Land Ownership & Permissions: Confirm you have the landowner’s authority to take action.
Wildlife Impact: Consider potential harm to nesting birds and protected species.
Firebreaks & Control Burns: Ensure any firebreak creation or controlled burning complies with relevant laws and best practices.
4. Emergency Response Coordination
Alert Emergency Services: If the fire is significant, contact the Fire & Rescue Service before taking action.
Local Fire Plans: Follow any existing wildfire response plans for the area.
Access for Firefighters: Ensure emergency vehicles can reach the site safely.
Water Sources: Identify nearby lakes, streams, or water tanks that could be used for firefighting.
5. Equipment and Resources
Firefighting Tools: Carry beaters, backpack sprayers, and fire rakes.
Water Supply: Have a means to transport or access water if needed.
Manpower: Do not attempt to tackle a large fire alone; coordinate with others.
6. Post-Fire Actions
Monitor for Reignition: Smouldering areas can reignite, requiring ongoing monitoring.
Report the Incident: Notify landowners, Natural England (if an SSSI is affected), and local authorities.
Assess Damage: Evaluate habitat loss, soil impact, and wildlife disturbance.
Restoration Measures: Plan actions to restore damaged moorland, such as erosion control and reseeding.
By considering these factors, you can make informed decisions and contribute effectively to wildfire response while staying within legal and safety guidelines.