Fire chiefs and the Wales Wildfire Board are urging the public to take extra care in the countryside ahead of the warmer weather returning, following a dramatic rise in grass fires across the country.

In 2025, fire services attended 3,474 grass fire incidents – a 275 per cent increase on the previous year. Of these, 2,357 were deliberately set, up 256 per cent from 2024.

The scale of the problem was felt locally, where firefighters battled multiple inicidents last year, including a 50-hectare blaze in Llangorse last summer and a 23-hectare fire in Hirwaun in April.

Andrew Wright, chair of the Wales Wildfire Board, said: “Our Wildfire Wise campaign draws on over a decade of experience in tackling wildfires across Wales, but the scale of last year’s incidents was truly unprecedented. The surge in grass fires we saw in 2025 shows just how urgently we all need to act to protect our countryside and keep our communities safe.

“It’s vital that we work together to build a healthier, more resilient, and biodiverse landscape for the future. Whilst accidents can happen, many are avoidable, and our campaign highlights the simple steps we can all take to prevent grass fires from starting.”

He stressed the importance of community awareness and cooperation. “We’re committed to working with communities, farmers, and landowners to share knowledge about the impact of both deliberate and accidental fires. We recognise that controlled burns can support biodiversity, and we’re available to offer free advice on how to carry them out safely.”

The rise in incidents is placing increasing pressure on fire services. In 2024/25, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) recorded 102 vehicle collisions linked to wildfire responses. Firefighters warn that dry grass and mountainsides can ignite quickly, turning even a small spark into a fast-moving fire.

Last year, MAWWFRS launched a major engagement programme to review wildfire prevention and response. Workshops brought together operational firefighters, land managers, partner agencies, and community representatives to develop practical, long-term measures.

The resulting plan includes eight core outcomes covering prevention, protection, response, and recovery. These range from education campaigns and land management advice to the use of technology such as drones and satellite mapping. The programme also focuses on specialist wildfire teams, improved equipment, and flexible vehicles suited to rural terrain.

Iwan Cray, Deputy Chief Fire Officer for MAWWFRS, said: “This process has shown the power of collaboration. By listening to our staff, partners, and communities, we’ve developed practical, innovative options that will strengthen our ability to prevent and respond to wildfires. Together, we can build a safer, more resilient Wales.”

The Wales Wildfire Board’s #WildfireWise campaign urges people to follow basic safety measures, including avoiding open flames in dry areas and clearing combustible materials from around properties.. Residents are also encouraged to report suspicious activity to CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111, or to call 101. In emergencies, the board stresses calling 999.

More information and safety tips can be found at: www.mawwfire.gov.uk/eng/campaigns-and-consultations/wildfirewise/