WITH a devastating moorland fire raging on Saddleworth Moor in north west England, visitors to Dartmoor and the countryside are being urged to be mindful of their impact on the environment.

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service said that wild fire is very dangerous as they spread fast and can change direction in an instant — especially in a period of hot weather like that over the last week.

Alan Gilson, community safety prevention manager, said: ‘We want people to be able to enjoy the countryside, but ask them to be vigilant during drier weather to help prevent more wild fires in the future. A change in wind direction can cause the fire to spread rapidly, putting fire fighters at risk as well as nearby people and property.’

Alan added that fire resources often have to be diverted away from other duties to deal with wild fires.

The fire service’s top tips to avoid a wild fire are:

• extinguish cigarettes and other smoking materials properly

• never throw cigarette ends out of car windows

• don’t leave bottles or glass in woodlands — sunlight shining through glass can start fires; take them home or put them in a waste or recycling bin

• avoid using open fires in the countryside 

• if you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately 

• don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water — leave the area as quickly as possible.

Alan said: ‘Some fires are clearly started deliberately — and we would ask the public to report any suspicious behaviour to the police immediately. You can contact the police on the 101 number or alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.’• Dartmoor National Park Authority have also issued their own warnings on the importance of fire safety on the moors in this heat.Andrew Watson, head of recreation, access and estates, said: ‘We obviously want people to come and enjoy Dartmoor, but we would urge them to do what they can to help us prevent a fire from breaking out.’There are particular concerns at the moment with the recent spell of exceptionally dry weather, which has made moorland vegetation extremely vulnerable to fire risk. Moorland fires could spread very quickly and could be devastating to the landscape and its wildlife, and to ground nesting birds at this time of the year.Simon Lee, ranger team manager said: ‘Discarded cigarettes, matches, lighters or glass bottles can start fires. If portable barbeques are being used, they should be placed on a rock to prevent damage to vegetation. Care should also be taken with camping stoves and fuel. All rubbish should be taken home and disposed of responsibly.’In the event of seeing a fire the public are asked to report it quickly to the fire service by phoning 999 so that they can take appropriate action.