With the UK experiencing prolonged hot spells, the RSPCA is urging people enjoying summer picnics to be especially careful to avoid causing wildfires. The charity highlights that ordinary items like glass drink bottles can focus sunlight and quickly ignite dry grass, leading to devastating fires.
The RSPCA’s warning comes as grasslands and woodlands across the country have become tinder-dry, increasing the risk of large-scale wildfires that have already severely affected parts of the UK this year. Beyond the dangers of using disposable barbecues or open flames in dry conditions, the charity emphasises that even litter such as glass can pose a serious threat.
In a recent Facebook update, the RSPCA explained how extended heatwaves leave heathland, forests, and grasslands particularly susceptible to fire damage, which in turn has dire consequences for wildlife. The charity called on everyone to act responsibly by avoiding disposable barbecues and open flames, never leaving rubbish behind-especially glass-and reporting any signs of fire or smoke immediately to emergency services.
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“Since wildfires continue to cause harm across the country, displaced animals are struggling to survive without reliable food or shelter,” the RSPCA noted. “We encourage people to help by providing water and shelter where possible.”
North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service issued a similar caution recently, highlighting how discarded glass bottles can ignite fires in dry conditions. Their advice to countryside visitors includes taking all litter home, avoiding disposable barbecues and campfires, extinguishing cigarettes and matches thoroughly, and parking safely to allow emergency vehicles access.
They also urged the public to call 999 immediately if they witness a fire, and to report deliberate fire-setting or suspicious activity through the non-emergency 101 number or anonymously via FireStoppers on 0800 169 5558.
If you encounter a wildfire, the recommended safety measure is to move to a clear, safe area away from vegetation and smoke, with vehicle occupants advised to close windows and vents while awaiting emergency responders. Providing precise location details to emergency services is also crucial to ensure a swift response.