FIREFIGHTERS are urging people not to start fires or barbeques in the countryside following a busy day yesterday (Saturday).

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service took to social media to warn of the dangers of fires in the open.

A post read: "It's already been a busy weekend for our crews who have had to respond to multiple incidents where fires or BBQs have got out of control

"With the recent dry weather, there is a very high risk of a major wildfire starting from even the smallest spark, ember or heat from a BBQ."

The service's advice is to avoid fires and barbeques in the countryside; make sure garden barbeques are safe and you have a bucket of water nearby; avoid garden bonfires by composting, recycling, or safely storing waste if your local household recycling centre is closed or too busy.