With the hotter weather thousands of people have been flocking to popular rural locations and beauty spots, resulting in an increase in the use of disposable barbecues.
We not only want the public to act responsibly but we're also calling on local authorities to start issuing PSPOs (Public Space Protection Orders).
PSPOs are intended to deal with particular nuisance or problems in specific areas by imposing conditions on the use of that area to ensure people can enjoy public spaces safely.
Local authorities have the power to implement a PSPO under Sections 59 to 75 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014.
A PSPO can ban any activities that carry a significant risk of causing wildfires – such as lighting barbeques, building or lighting campfires or camping stoves, lighting fireworks, or setting off night-sky paper lanterns.
Follow the Countryside Code
NFU Land Management Chief Adviser Sam Durham said: “With such dry conditions underfoot, we are urging visitors to the countryside to take extra care to avoid starting a fire. A dropped match or smouldering barbecue is all that’s needed to start a serious blaze in our fields. I would urge everyone to follow the Countryside Code.
“The NFU would like to see local authorities start issuing Public Space Protection Orders that deal with problems in a specific area by imposing certain conditions such as a ban on naked flames.”
