Wildfire warning issued after fires lit in Glastonbury

A fire in the Mendip area. <i>(Image: Shepton Mallet Fire Station)</i>
A fire in the Mendip area. (Image: Shepton Mallet Fire Station)
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Glastonbury Town Council has urged residents and visitors not to light fires in open spaces following reports and images circulating on social media showing fires being lit in the town.

In a statement, the council stressed that no fires had been lit on land owned or managed by Glastonbury Town Council, that no permission had been granted for such activity, and that it does not support the lighting of fires either on its land or elsewhere during the current period of exceptionally dry weather.



The warning comes as much of the region experiences drought conditions, increasing the risk of wildfires.

The council said fires in the open can spread quickly and unpredictably, posing a threat to wildlife, livestock, habitats, homes, businesses and people.

A spokesperson said: "The current conditions present an increased risk of wildfire."

The statement referenced guidance from Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, which has previously warned that many wildfires are caused by human activity, including campfires, disposable barbecues, discarded cigarettes and other careless behaviour.

Glastonbury Town Council said parks, open spaces and the surrounding countryside are particularly vulnerable during the current dry spell.

The authority warned that a single spark has the potential to destroy habitats, kill wildlife, damage property and place residents and visitors at risk, while also diverting emergency services from other incidents.

Residents and visitors are being encouraged not to light campfires, disposable barbecues or other open fires on grassland or in the countryside, to take litter home, dispose of cigarettes responsibly and report any fire by calling 999 if it is safe to do so.

The council said protecting the community, wildlife and local environment remains a priority and thanked the "overwhelming majority" of people who continue to use Glastonbury's open spaces responsibly.

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