With a drought now officially declared across Devon and Somerset. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service are urging people to help reduce the risk of wildfires and use water responsibly as hot, dry conditions continue.
The prolonged dry weather has left vegetation extremely dry, meaning fires can spread quickly and become difficult to control.
A hosepipe ban is currently only in place in East Devon, but water resources everywhere are under increasing pressure.
To ensure water is available where it's needed most, we are taking operational measures to protect our emergency response. This includes reducing non-essential water use across the Service, reviewing alternative water supplies used for firefighting, and carefully managing the use of open water sources to minimise environmental impacts.
At the same time, we're ensuring our operational resources are ready to respond. This includes checking that water bowsers, 4x4 vehicles, ATVs, drones, leaf blowers, and other specialist wildfire equipment are fully operational and available should they be needed.
Gerald Taylor, our Deputy Chief Fire Officer, said: "Every drop of water matters during periods of prolonged dry weather. We're taking sensible steps to protect water supplies while ensuring we're ready to respond whenever our communities need us. We're also asking everyone to play their part. Small actions, from using water wisely to helping prevent outdoor fires, can make a real difference."
How you can help
- Avoid lighting fires, having campfires, or using disposable BBQs in the countryside
- Stay with any BBQ or fire pit at all times
- Never discard cigarettes or matches onto dry grass
- Report fires early by calling 999
- Use water wisely at home and follow any advice from your water supplier.
Together, we can help protect our communities, our countryside, and ensure water is available when it's needed most.

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