With the prolonged dry spell continuing across West Sussex, local landscapes are now at very high risk of wildfire. Grassland, heath, farmland edges, and riverside vegetation around Pulborough — including areas near the River Adur and the South Downs National Park — have become tinder‑dry. Even a small spark can escalate into a fast‑moving fire that threatens people, wildlife, property, and vital habitats.

West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service (WSFRS) is urging residents and visitors to take extra precautions and to avoid any activity that could ignite dry vegetation. Their message is clear: preventing a fire is far easier — and far safer — than fighting one.

Why the Risk Is So High Right Now

The county’s Fire Severity Index remains “very high”, meaning conditions are primed for rapid fire spread.

Prolonged hot, dry weather has left vegetation extremely vulnerable. Even small heat sources — disposable BBQs, fire pits, campfires, cigarettes — can ignite a major incident.

Fires in open countryside place significant pressure on emergency services, diverting crews from other critical incidents.

Station Manager Matt Gamblen, WSFRS Wildfires Tactical Advisor, warns:

“It only takes a small spark from a discarded cigarette, barbecue, campfire or machinery to ignite dry vegetation which can have devastating consequences.”

BBQs, Fire Pits and Open Flames: What You Must Avoid

WSFRS is asking the public to avoid using disposable barbecues, fire pits, campfires or any open flames in:

• Open countryside
• Recreational green spaces
• Riverbanks and floodplains (including the River Adur corridor)
• Heathland and woodland
• South Downs National Park sites near Pulborough

Even when placed “safely”, disposable BBQs and fire pits remain a major ignition risk because:

• They stay hot for hours after use.
• They can scorch or ignite grass beneath them.
• Wind can carry embers into dry vegetation.
• They are often discarded before fully cooled.

WSFRS attends numerous fires each summer caused by disposable BBQs that were still hot when thrown away.

Safety Messages from West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service

1. Avoid BBQs and Open Flames in the Countryside

• Do not use disposable BBQs on dry grass or in open spaces.
• Choose a picnic instead of a barbecue during high‑risk periods.

2. Dispose of Smoking Materials Properly

• Fully extinguish cigarettes.
• Never flick cigarette ends into grass, hedgerows or woodland.

3. Keep Vehicles Off Dry Grass

• Hot exhaust systems can ignite vegetation beneath your car.

4. Remove Fire Hazards

• Take litter home — glass bottles can magnify sunlight and start fires.
• Keep reflective objects out of direct sun.

5. If You See a Fire

• Move to a safe place.
• Call 999 immediately.
• Do not attempt to tackle a fire yourself.

Protecting Pulborough’s Landscapes

The River Adur floodplain, Pulborough Brooks, and the surrounding South Downs are home to rare species, fragile habitats, and important farmland. A single wildfire can:

• Destroy nesting sites and wildlife corridors
• Damage soil structure and riverbank vegetation
• Threaten homes, farms and livestock
• Close footpaths, bridleways and public access areas
• Release significant carbon into the atmosphere

Cllr Sharon Curd, Chair, Pulborough Parish Council explains:

“During periods of heightened wildfire risk, we all have a responsibility to help protect these areas.”

How You Can Help Keep Pulborough Safe

• Avoid BBQs, fire pits and campfires in all open spaces.
• Keep to designated picnic areas.
• Take all litter home.
• Report smoke, fire or suspicious activity immediately.
• Spread the message — wildfire prevention is a community effort.

A Final Word from Pulborough’s Neighbourhood Wardens, Carol Boniface and Lottie Torp:

“Preventing a fire taking hold in the first place is always the best approach. By taking a few simple precautions, residents can help protect their communities, local wildlife,  property and reduce pressure on emergency services.”