John Henderson

Rangers and fire services across Devon and Cornwall are intensifying patrols, warnings and firebreak work as exceptionally dry conditions raise the risk of rapidly spreading wildfires. Dartmoor has banned fires, while authorities are urging visitors and residents to avoid disposable barbecues, bonfires, campfires, fireworks and controlled burns. Officials say most open-land fires are linked to human activity, and note that a major Dartmoor wildfire in May 2025 destroyed about 1,230 acres. Cornwall is under drought conditions with a hosepipe ban, and fire services are planning for more severe incidents linked to climate change and possible El Niño-related winds.

Dartmoor rangers and fire services across Devon and Cornwall are increasing patrols, signage, firebreaks and enforcement as exceptionally dry, drought-affected conditions raise the risk of rapidly spreading wildfires. Visitors are being urged to avoid disposable barbecues, bonfires, campfires, fireworks and controlled burns, while officials warn that discarded barbecues, glass and other human-caused hazards can ignite parched vegetation. Fire services have handled hundreds of outdoor fires and are planning for larger incidents linked to climate change and potentially strong winds from El Niño.