FIREWISE COMMUNITIES
Our heaths, woodlands and open spaces are wonderful places and living next to them is a privilege. However, wildfires are occurring now in the UK and we should be prepared.
Why is this relevant in Dorset?
On average, Dorset suffers from 107 heathland wildfires each year. These fires pose a direct threat to homes and communities nearby.
In Dorset we’re incredibly lucky to have some of the last remaining remnants of lowland heathland. These habitats are rarer on the planet than tropical rainforest, havens for the special wildlife that lives on them and precious greenspaces for us to enjoy.
But our population has grown and now they are surrounded by conurbation. Embers from a wildfire can travel up to a mile, meaning any fire nearby puts our homes and us in danger.
We do our best to prevent wildfires on our heaths, but they do occur, and as the climate changes they will only increase.
So what can we do?
With support from Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, Firewise UK is here to help with practical advice and resources for communities to share.
Download our leaflets and get in touch for further advice and support, email: dorsetheaths@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Firewise Communities is an international programme based on research by the world’s leading fire experts on ignition of homes from wildfire.
The programme encourages communities to work together to reduce the risk to homes from wildfire by taking practical steps in the area around the home and garden.
In 2021 we presented our very first webinar on wildfires and the threat they pose. We also hosted one on 25 May 2021 specifically for residents of the Avon Heath and St. Leonards communities of Dorset, following the significant wildfires that occurred there. Both recordings are available to view by clicking the buttons below.
Get in touch
If you think your community would benefit from being part of this international programme, or to find out more information, please contact the Dorset Heaths Partnership on dorsetheaths@dorsetcouncil.gov.uk
Credit for main header photo – Dorset Wilts and Fire Rescue Service