Date: 1st May, 2026
Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) is once again reminding the public to take care this summer through its wildfire prevention campaign, as firefighters report a worrying rise in deliberately set fires across the area.
The campaign aims to encourage residents, along with day trippers and holidaymakers, to enjoy the region’s beautiful open spaces responsibly. However, DWFRS is increasingly concerned that a growing number of fires are being started intentionally, placing communities, emergency services, wildlife and the environment at serious risk.
Over the last three years, DWFRS has seen a significant increase in fires in the open. The number of wildfire incidents attended has more than doubled since 2023, with 1,040 fires in the open recorded in 2025 and 510 recorded in 2023.
A proportion of these incidents are believed to have been deliberately started.
During 2025, DWFRS dealt with several major wildfire incidents, including a large wildfire at Holt Heath near Wimborne, following a week of dealing with other fires near Swanage. A major incident was declared, and the Holt Heath fire alone took another week to bring under control. Approximately 72 hectares of land were destroyed, causing long-lasting damage to habitats and tying up firefighters and resources for extended periods.
DWFRS is working closely with Dorset Police and other partners, to tackle the rise in deliberate fire setting and to support the wildfire prevention campaign. Both organisations are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious behaviour immediately, as early intervention can prevent a small fire from becoming a major incident.
Area Manager Marc House, Head of Prevention at DWFRS, said: “Firefighters, Control room operators and staff from across Dorset and Wiltshire, along with our partners, worked extremely hard to bring incidents such as the Canford Heath and more recently the Holt Heath fire to a safe conclusion.
“These incidents highlight just how devastating and resource intensive wildfires are. Deliberately setting fires is reckless, dangerous and a criminal offence, and we fully support Dorset Police in identifying those responsible.”
With warmer weather approaching, DWFRS is reminding people that while it is natural to want to enjoy time outdoors with friends and family, it is vital to remain fire aware.
Marc added: “Anyone who sees suspicious behaviour, small fires, or discarded ignition materials is urged to report it to Dorset Police, or to call 999 in an emergency. By staying alert, acting responsibly and reporting concerns, the public can play a vital role in helping DWFRS and Dorset Police protect communities and prevent wildfires this summer.”
Inspector Adam Gill, of Dorset Police, said: “We are committed to working with all our partners to keep our communities safe and this includes working with the fire service and other agencies to protect our heathlands and other sensitive environments.
“We will be conducting patrols in these areas as part of a coordinated response effort with partners to provide an increased presence and we will thoroughly investigate any incidents where fires are reported to have been started deliberately. Members of the public can also assist by reporting any suspicious activity around heathland areas to us.”
Paul Attwell Team Manager at Dorset Heaths Partnership said “These fires put people property and wildlife at risk, fires at this time of year can be devastating for the rare wildlife that live on the heathlands such as ground nesting birds and reptiles, we ask everyone to help protect these special areas by reporting anything suspicious they see.”
Mark Warn, Wildlife Ranger at Forestry England said “Wildfires can be devastating for nature. Even the smallest fire can take hold very quickly and destroy large areas of heathland and wildlife. It can take decades for these areas to fully recover and for local communities to be able to enjoy these special areas again. We can all help to prevent these incidents by remaining vigilant and by reporting any fires immediately to the emergency service.”
More information on staying safe and enjoying outside areas whilst avoiding starting a wildfire can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/heath-fires-and-countryside-safety