Public urged to act safely and responsibly to reduce wildfire risk

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir thanked firefighters and NIFRS support personnel involved in the response to recent wildfires.  

As warmer weather returns, Northern Ireland’s Health and Agriculture Ministers are urging the public to act responsibly in the countryside to prevent further outbreaks of wildfires that have already devastated large swathes of natural landscape in recent weeks.

Health Minister Mike Nesbitt and Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs Minister Andrew Muir made a joint visit to Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) headquarters in Lisburn, and later attended a drill night at Ballynahinch Fire Station, to personally thank frontline firefighters, control room personnel and support staff for their exceptional efforts in tackling the recent series of wildfires across the region.

Describing the impact of the wildfires, Minister Mike Nesbitt said:

“It has been a privilege to have the opportunity to meet the NIFRS personnel and firefighters that were involved in tackling the recent gorse and wildfires which ravaged large areas in recent weeks, severely impacting our communities and natural environment.”

He continued:

“My thoughts have been with those who were evacuated from their homes, and whose lives and livelihoods were put at risk following these events. But foremost also in my mind has been the frontline emergency services fighting to bring these fires under control.”

“Their tremendous work was a testament to the resilience, bravery and dedication of our emergency services. The scale of the challenges faced by the crews and partners, in the face of extremely dangerous conditions, served as a reminder of their unwavering commitment to public safety. I wish to express my sincere gratitude for all their efforts.

“I would ask anyone looking to enjoy the countryside over this current period of good weather and during the coming months to do so responsibly and to be vigilant to the risks of wildfires.”

Recent incidents have seen Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service receive 2,762 fire calls between 3 April and 13 April, with 1,499 mobilisations—390 of which were linked to gorse and wildfire incidents.

Among the most affected areas were Bloody Bridge in Newcastle, Silent Valley near Kilkeel, Sawel Mountain near Newtownstewart, and Dervock in County Antrim. A major incident was declared in the Mourne Mountains, with hundreds of emergency personnel mobilised.

Authorities believe many of the fires were deliberately started.

Minister Andrew Muir echoed the call for caution, saying:

“I am very grateful to have been given the opportunity to thank firefighters in person for their tireless work alongside all other first responders in responding to these fires. The scale of the destruction wreaked upon our countryside was heartbreaking to see.

“These fires caused a devastating impact on wildlife, flora and fauna, risked livestock and impacted both local residents and businesses. That damage however was undoubtedly greatly reduced by the preparedness of all agencies involved with great expertise and courage displayed. DAERA was able to support the efforts with the NIEA on site and specialist All-Terrain Vehicles with portable pumps deployed.

“As we face into the months ahead I would once again appeal to everyone using the countryside we all cherish to exercise care and play their part in reducing the burden on our emergency services. We all have a responsibility to prevent a recurrence of these devastating fires.”

During their visit, the Ministers met with regional control room staff, support employees, and Ballynahinch On-Call firefighters, who were instrumental during the wildfire emergency, particularly in the Newry, Mourne & Down council area.

Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings said:

“I would like to express my gratitude to Minister Nesbitt and Minister Muir for their support and recognising the tremendous efforts of our Fire & Rescue Service during the recent wildfires.

“Our firefighters worked tirelessly under very challenging and exhausting conditions to bring the fires under control. Behind the scenes our control room operators and many support employees ensured that our response was swift, coordinated and effective. Their commitment in such difficult circumstances was exceptional and I am extremely proud of the dedication of our people.

“As we anticipate more good weather in the days ahead, I would urge the public to act safely when enjoying the countryside to help reduce the risk of wildfires.”

Fire Safety Guidance for Countryside Visitors

Authorities are reminding the public of key steps they can take to reduce the risk of wildfires:

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.

• Properly extinguish cigarettes and avoid discarding them on the ground or from vehicles.

• Use barbeques only in suitable, safe areas and never leave them unattended.

• Ensure barbeques are fully extinguished and cold before disposal.

• Take all litter, including glass bottles, home or dispose of it responsibly.

• Park vehicles considerately to ensure emergency access.

• Keep children away from fire-starting materials.

• Do not attempt to tackle fires unless they are small enough to be put out with a bucket of water.

• Report countryside fires immediately by dialling 999.

• Report suspicious behaviour or deliberate fire-setting to the PSNI.

As summer approaches, government officials and emergency responders are united in their message: enjoy the countryside, but do so responsibly—lives, livelihoods and precious habitats depend on it.