Northern Ireland on ‘Yellow’ wildfire alert as risks rise moving into Spring

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir pictured with PSNI Superintendent Chris Hamill and NIFRS Area Commander Ryan Thompson as the department and agencies issue a reminder about wildfire season.

A stark warning has been issued to the public as authorities move to a default ‘Yellow’ wildfire risk across Northern Ireland, with officials urging vigilance to prevent a repeat of last year’s devastating blazes.

The Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA), Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) and the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) say the risk will remain in place until the end of September, covering all areas with dry vegetation such as dead grasses, gorse and heather.

The move comes as spring conditions heighten the likelihood of fires spreading rapidly—posing a serious threat to people, homes, wildlife, and critical infrastructure.

Lessons from last year’s devastating fires

DAERA Minister Andrew Muir pointed to the widespread destruction seen in 2025, including major incidents in the Mournes, Slieve Beagh and the Sperrins.

“We all saw the damage that was done across Northern Ireland last year with devastating wildfires,” he said.

“I would urge everyone to act responsibly by heeding the advice, remaining vigilant and swiftly reporting to the Police anyone they suspect of maliciously starting fires in our countryside.”

Wildfires not only damage landscapes and biodiversity but also carry significant public costs and serious health risks, including impacts on respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Children and vulnerable people are particularly at risk.

Emergency services under pressure

NIFRS Area Commander Ryan Thompson warned that wildfire incidents place intense strain on emergency services, especially during peak seasons.

“Last year, we responded to a significant number of wildfires throughout the spring and summer months, which placed intense pressure on our Firefighters and our Service,” he said.

“As we approach this period again, we urge everyone to support their Fire & Rescue Service by staying alert to wildfire risks and acting responsibly in the countryside.”

Deliberate fires ‘will be prosecuted’

Police have also issued a firm warning that deliberately setting wildfires is a criminal offence.

PSNI Superintendent Chris Hamill said:

“Deliberately setting a wildfire is a criminal offence for which you can face prosecution. Where it is found that a fire has been maliciously started, it will be fully investigated by police, and when identified, those responsible can expect to be arrested and brought before court.”

Legal restrictions and responsibilities

Authorities have reminded landowners and the public of strict legal controls around burning vegetation.

It is illegal to burn or destroy vegetation on uncultivated land between 15 April and 31 August. Additional restrictions apply in protected areas such as Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs), where consent may be required.

Landowners planning controlled burns must also:

• Notify the Fire & Rescue Service before and after burning

• Inform neighbouring forest owners within one mile between 14 days and one month in advance

• Ensure all necessary precautions are in place

Safety advice for the public

Residents and visitors to the countryside are being urged to take simple but critical precautions:

• Avoid lighting open fires

• Use barbecues only in designated areas and never leave them unattended

• Properly extinguish cigarettes and never discard them from vehicles

• Park responsibly to allow emergency access

If a fire is spotted, the public should report it immediately, leave the area, and never attempt to tackle anything beyond a small, manageable fire.

A shared responsibility

With warmer months approaching, authorities stress that preventing wildfires is a collective effort.

By staying alert and acting responsibly, communities across Northern Ireland—including Ballymena and the wider Mid and East Antrim area—can help protect landscapes, wildlife, and lives from avoidable devastation.

At a glance

• ‘Yellow’ wildfire risk in place across Northern Ireland until September

• Increased danger due to dry vegetation and spring weather conditions

• Wildfires threaten people, property, wildlife, and infrastructure

• Health risks include respiratory and cardiovascular impacts

• Burning vegetation illegal between 15 April and 31 August

  
  

• Deliberately starting fires is a criminal offence

• Emergency services faced significant pressure during 2025 wildfires

• Public urged to avoid open fires and act responsibly in rural areas

• Landowners must follow strict legal requirements for controlled burning

• Immediate reporting of fires is essential to limit damage