Deliberate blazes up 256% as campaign calls for extra care in the countryside this spring and summer
THE WALES Wildfire Board is urging residents and visitors across Mid and West Wales to be #WildfireWise this spring and summer, following a sharp rise in grass fires attended by emergency services.
With warmer weather encouraging more people to enjoy the countryside — from staycations and walking trips to family camping holidays — officials are reminding the public that the spring and summer months bring an increased risk of wildfires.
Figures released by the board show that in 2025 fire services across Wales attended 3,474 grass fire incidents, representing a 275% increase on the previous year.
Even more concerning is the rise in deliberate incidents. The number of deliberate grass fires rose to 2,357, an increase of 1,694 fires — up 256%.
The board says the figures represent the highest number of grass fires recorded since 2018, warning that the growing trend puts communities, property, wildlife and vital emergency resources under significant pressure.
At this time of year, dry grass and mountainsides can quickly become highly flammable, meaning even a small spark — whether accidental or deliberate — can rapidly escalate into a fast-moving blaze capable of destroying habitats, landscapes and even homes within minutes.
The #WildfireWise campaign aims to raise awareness of how easily fires can start and encourages people to take simple precautions to reduce the risk. It also urges members of the public to remain alert while out in rural areas and report suspicious behaviour.
Andrew Wright, Chair of the Wales Wildfire Board and Senior Specialist Advisor at Natural Resources Wales, said last year’s incidents were “truly unprecedented”.
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Mr Wright added that the board is committed to working with communities, farmers and landowners to share knowledge on the impact of fires — whether deliberate or accidental — and to promote safer practices.
“We recognise that controlled burns can support biodiversity, and we’re available to offer free advice on how to carry them out safely,” he said.
“And while some fires are accidental, others are set deliberately. This is a criminal act that puts lives at risk and places unnecessary pressure on frontline services — pressure we saw all too clearly during last year’s unprecedented spike in incidents.”
The Wales Wildfire Board is encouraging people to access campaign materials online, including downloadable safety messages for sharing on social media, and advice on how to help prevent wildfires.
More information and practical safety tips can be found by visiting the #WildfireWise campaign online.
Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity in the countryside is urged to contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111, or report concerns by calling 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.
