Sunday 19th July 2026
By Bridlington Gold Radio Editor
A tractor works on a dry farmland field as smoke rises from a line of burning stubble, showing the risk of countryside and harvest fires during hot, dry weather.
Humberside Fire & Rescue Service Urges Summer Countryside Fire Safety
With warm, dry weather continuing across East Yorkshire, Humberside Fire & Rescue Service is reminding residents, visitors and farmers to take extra care when spending time outdoors. The service warns that prolonged sunshine and parched ground mean fires can start and spread rapidly, posing a serious threat to people, wildlife, crops, livestock and rural businesses.
Safety Tips for Countryside Visitors
As more people head out to enjoy walks, picnics and scenic views, the fire service is asking everyone to play their part in protecting rural areas.
Key advice includes:
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Take litter home or place it in a bin. Glass bottles and food packaging can magnify sunlight and spark fires.
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Choose a picnic instead of using disposable barbecues.
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Fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of them responsibly.
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Never throw cigarette ends from vehicles – grass verges are extremely dry.
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Report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999.
A spokesperson said that simple actions can make a huge difference during the busy summer season, helping safeguard the countryside and supporting farming communities as harvest approaches.
Harvest Fire Safety Reminder for Farmers
Farmers are also being urged to stay alert as harvest brings long working hours, heavy machinery use and heightened fire risks.
Humberside Fire & Rescue recommends taking a few minutes each day to review essential safety checks:
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Keep machinery clean, well‑maintained and regularly inspected.
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Remove dust, oil and crop debris to prevent overheating.
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Address signs of faults, hot bearings or overheating early.
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Ensure hay and straw are fully dried before storage to reduce spontaneous combustion.
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Store fuel, chemicals and fertilisers securely and away from ignition sources.
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Keep fire extinguishers accessible and routinely checked.
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Make sure all workers know emergency procedures and escape routes.
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Ensure lone workers can quickly contact emergency services and share their location.
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Use the what3words app to help responders pinpoint incidents.
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Stay vigilant for trespass or arson, especially near accessible crop fields, machinery or bale stacks.
If a Fire Occurs
The service advises farmers and countryside visitors to:
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Call 999 immediately.
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Use what3words to give an accurate location.
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Evacuate people and livestock if safe to do so.
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Guide emergency crews to access points, water supplies and any hazards.
Further farm fire safety guidance is available at: https://humbersidefire.gov.uk/your-safety/business-safety/fire-safety-on-the-farm
Humberside Fire & Rescue Service thanked the public for their support, urging everyone to stay vigilant and help keep the countryside safe throughout the summer.
