The National Trust has issued an urgent warning against portable barbecues and open fires following recent blazes at Hadrian's Wall, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Northumberland, and the wider Tyne Valley. The organization urges visitors to leave portable barbecues at home and refrain from lighting campfires in the countryside after grass fires required fire service response.
Recent Fires Sparked by Outdoor Cooking Equipment
Fire crews attended two recent blazes believed to have been sparked by outdoor cooking equipment. The fires spread quickly through tinder-dry vegetation but were contained thanks to swift action by the fire brigade. However, they posed a serious risk to people, wildlife, and the internationally significant archaeology and landscape. Other fires were caught quickly and extinguished by local farmers.
Vulnerability of Hadrian's Wall and Tyne Valley
Hadrian's Wall and its surrounding countryside in the Tyne Valley are exceptionally vulnerable in dry conditions. Even small embers or residual heat from disposable or portable barbecues can ignite parched grass, peat, or heather, causing wildfires that are difficult to control and can smoulder underground for days.
Andrew Poad, General Manager for the Hadrian's Wall Country portfolio at the National Trust, said: "The archaeology, wildlife, and sweeping open landscapes attract hundreds of thousands of visitors each year and we want people to enjoy visiting these places for generations to come. However, hotter, drier conditions are making our countryside increasingly vulnerable to fire, and climate change is only intensifying that risk."
"Nearly all countryside fires are unfortunately caused by human activity, whether through litter, discarded cigarettes or BBQs, so we all have a responsibility to act with care. Places like Hadrian's Wall and the Tyne Valley are internationally important landscapes, rich in wildlife, heritage and natural beauty, and we need everyone's help to protect them for future generations. We'd like to thank the member of the public who alerted the farmer and the response of Northumberland Fire and Rescue who acted swiftly to put the fires out."
Damage to Wildlife and Archaeology
Damage from fire can destroy habitats for ground-nesting birds, small mammals, and invertebrates as well as threatening farming livelihoods. In the case of Hadrian's Wall, fire can scar archaeological layers and the historic fabric of the World Heritage Site. On one of the hottest days of the year, a group was discovered using an open fire and BBQ south of Sycamore Gap.
The National Trust asks for the public's help in observing no-fire restrictions, particularly during hot, dry conditions when the risk of countryside fire is significantly increased. The Trust is working with local partners to monitor fire risk levels and adapt access arrangements if conditions worsen. They have also put up more signage to remind visitors to help protect the precious landscape.
Visitor Reminder
To help visitors enjoy the area and protect the landscape and wildlife, the organization has issued this reminder:
- Do not bring disposable or portable BBQs, fire pits, or stoves to Hadrian's Wall or surrounding countryside.
- Never light campfires or burn any materials, including charcoal, kindling or candles.
- Take litter home – glass and metal can magnify heat and start fires.
- Take care to fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of them in bins.
- Stick to waymarked paths and keep dogs on leads to avoid disturbing wildlife in stressed habitats.
- If you spot a fire, move away to a safe location, note your position if possible and call 999.
