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5 minutes
Wildfires and drought: how to stay safe during hot, dry weather
Aimee, digital content manager
Temperatures are rising and rainfall remains low across much of the UK. That means the risk of wildfires and drought conditions is increasing.
Even if your area is not currently experiencing a wildfire or official drought, it is worth knowing what to do if conditions worsen. Some areas are currently more affected than others (check the risks in your area), however, risks can develop quickly. There are a few simple precautions that can help keep everyone safe.
Understanding the risks
Wildfires can spread rapidly during dry weather. This puts people, wildlife, homes and emergency services at risk. Coupled with prolonged periods of low rainfall, this can lead to drought conditions. This affects water supplies, public health and the environment.
How to help prevent wildfires
Many wildfires are caused accidentally. They can often be avoided by taking extra care outdoors.
If you're spending time in the countryside, parks, moorland or woodland areas:
- Do not light fires in open spaces
- Only use barbecues in designated areas where they are allowed
- Never leave a hot barbecue unattended
- Make sure barbecues are fully extinguished and ashes are completely cold before disposal
- Fully stub out smoking materials and dispose of them safely
- Never throw cigarette ends from vehicles
- Take your rubbish home with you. Especially glass bottles, which can intensify sunlight and increase fire risk
- Follow local signs and guidance for access restrictions when there is a heightened wildfire risk
What to do if you see a wildfire
If you spot a wildfire or grass fire:
- Move to safety first
- Get away from the fire and smoke as quickly as possible
- Never attempt to tackle a wildfire yourself. Fires can spread rapidly and change direction unexpectedly
- Call 999 immediately. Do not assume someone else has already reported it
- Providing an accurate location can help emergency services respond quickly. If possible, use the Ordnance Survey app or what3words to identify your location
- Follow advice from emergency services. If asked, wait at a safe location to provide further information
- Avoid travelling to affected areas
Where to find trusted information
Protect your health
Smoke and ash can affect air quality, particularly for people with respiratory conditions. If smoke is affecting your area:
- Keep windows and doors closed
- Stay indoors where possible
- Follow advice from emergency services and local authorities. This includes any instructions to evacuate or stay indoors
Staying safe during drought conditions
Droughts can have a wider impact than many people realise. During periods of hot weather, they are often accompanied by heatwaves. These can increase the risk of dehydration and other health concerns.
Who is most at risk?
Everyone can be affected by dehydration, but the people below should be extra careful:
- Older adults
- Babies and young children
- People living with serious long-term health conditions
- People with serious mental health conditions or taking certain medications
- People who work or exercise outdoors
- People experiencing homelessness
What to do during a drought
To look after your health and wellbeing:
- Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated
- Continue good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing
- Contact your water company if you experience water supply interruptions or outages
- Check local conditions before activities such as swimming or diving
Simple ways to save water at home
Using water carefully helps conserve supplies and protects the environment.
You can make a difference by:
- Turning off taps when brushing your teeth, shaving or washing your hands
- Choosing a shower instead of a bath where possible
- Using a bucket rather than a hosepipe to wash your car
- Reusing water where appropriate, such as watering plants
- Using a watering can instead of a hosepipe in the garden
- Installing a water butt to collect rainwater
- Only running washing machines and dishwashers with full loads
- Using eco settings on appliances where available
- Checking toilets, taps and appliances for leaks. You can report a repair online
- Following updates from your water company and local news sources
Some water companies may introduce a hosepipe ban (officially named a Temporary Use Ban). If restrictions are introduced in your area, make sure you understand what activities are affected and follow the guidance provided.
By staying informed, using water responsibly and taking care outdoors, we can all help keep our communities safe during periods of hot, dry weather.