The RSPCA has issued a warning that everyday litter, such as glass bottles, can help start wildfires as hot weather leaves grasslands and woodland tinder-dry. The charity's alert comes as large-scale wildfires have devastated landscapes across the UK this year.
In a Facebook update, the RSPCA described how prolonged heatwaves can leave heathland, forests and grassland especially vulnerable, with fires causing severe damage. The charity wrote: "Preventing these disasters requires all of us to act responsibly."
Common lunch item can trigger flames
The warning is not just aimed at people who use disposable barbecues or light open flames. Litter, such as glass, can also become a problem in direct sunlight. Something as simple as a glass drink bottle purchased for lunch could cause devastation.
Tragically, wildfires can spread quickly, and many animals are unable to escape once flames take hold. The RSPCA added: "As wildfires continue to affect areas across the country, displaced wildlife are now surviving in unfamiliar places without reliable access to food or shelter. Please look out for them and leave water and shelter where possible."
Fire service echoes warning
North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service shared a similar warning last month, alerting the public to the dangers of glass. On Facebook, the Service wrote: "That glass bottle left behind could spark a disaster. In this hot, dry weather, something as simple as a discarded glass bottle can start a wildfire. Sunlight passing through glass can generate enough heat to ignite dry grass and vegetation, putting people, wildlife, homes, farmland and emergency services at risk."
The warning continued: "If you're out enjoying the countryside, please: Take all litter home, including glass bottles. Don't use disposable BBQs or light campfires. Put cigarettes and matches out properly. Park safely so fire engines and emergency vehicles can get through."
How to respond to a wildfire
The fire service also advised: "If you see a fire, call 999 immediately. To report deliberate fire-setting or suspicious behaviour, call 101 for non-emergencies or contact FireStoppers anonymously on 0800 169 5558."
If you come across a wildfire, the advice is to get to a safe place away from vegetation and smoke as you await emergency services. Anyone in a vehicle should shut windows and vents. Emergency services also ask callers to give as accurate a location as possible.
