AN AMBER fire warning is in place for Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole.
The warning comes amid a fire that had to be extinguished on the clifftops at Southbourne just an hour before the Night Air show started as part of Bournemouth Air Festival.
Five fire engines rushed to Boscombe Overcliff Drive to extinguish the heathland fire – the cause of which is still under investigation.
BCP Council said: “There is currently an amber fire warning across Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole.
“This means the risk of fire is high. Please be responsible and have no fires or barbecues near our heathlands or clifftops.
“Barbecues are strictly prohibited on our beaches until 6pm and must be disposed of safely. Alternatively, please use our electric barbecues located along the seafront.”
An amber alert means that, should a wildfire be started, it could spread quickly and easily due to the dry conditions.
The greatest risk is on large areas of open land, including heathlands, fields and cliffsides.
Tips include:
Avoid having open fires or using barbecues in the countryside. Disposable barbecues and campfires are actually banned in many parts of Dorset.
Extinguish smoking materials properly, and don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows – take your litter home.
If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately to Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service. Early detection can prevent it from developing into a large wildfire incident.
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