Play your part in stopping wildfires

Play your part in stopping wildfires

Firefighters across Greater Manchester are calling on people to take care when out enjoying the moors.

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) is asking the public to make sure they put any cigarettes out and take litter home to reduce the risk of wildfires starting.

GMFRS has attended 18 wildfires between January and April.

Paul Etches, Head of Prevention, said: “If you are out on the moors please take extra care and don’t light any fires. Make sure you put out any cigarettes and take your litter home with you.

“Our moorlands are important habitats for wildlife and are a vital part of our environment but can take a long time to recover from a fire.

“Please report any fires by calling 999.”

On Tuesday, 11 April crews attended a moorland fire approximately one kilometre square near Littleborough, battling against fading light to make the area safe.

Paul added: “These types of fires can be extremely challenging but our crews work tirelessly to bring them under control and make areas safe.

“With your help we can help to reduce the number of wildfires starting.”

Crews attended 47 moorland fires during 2016.