Wildfires are unplanned or uncontrolled fires in the countryside or open areas in towns and cities. They often spread quickly through plants that are dry and easy to burn such as gorse and heather. Download below the key issues in relation to wildfires.
The Ring of Gullion AONB project worked with Enspire and Tommakesmusic on a wildfire awareness campaign in 2013/14. The campaign is funded by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and Newry and Mourne District Council, to raise awareness of the risks of wildfires in the Ring of Gullion area.
A series of videos were made by the Year 6 school children in St Malachy’s Primary School, Camlough and St Mary’s Primary School, Mullaghbawn through the Ring of Gullion AONB project. They aim to raise the awareness of the dangers of wildfires and reduce the amount of fires.
If you see a wildfire – here are the Do’s and Don’ts
If you see a wildfire call 999 and ask for fire; tell them where the fire is as best you can.
Get away from the scene of the fire as flames can spread quickly.
Help by keeping an eye on the site at a safe distance and report any re-ignition as summer fires in particular can re-flare.
Don’t ever tackle a fire yourself.
Don’t hesitate to dial 999 – you may be the first to report the fire.
Don’t park where you may block fire appliances from attending a fire.
Click below to see the Ring of Gullion wildfire postcard with information, on what to do if you see a wildfire.
To get more information on gorse wildfires and to play the risk finder game, click here to visit the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service Fire Storm website.
If you have any photos or videos of past wildfires in the Ring of Gullion, which you would like to share, please email them to [email protected] or contact the office on 028 30861949.