Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service has called on the public to take care in outdoor areas due to a forecast of drier weather that increases wildfire risks.

The service responded to 95 wildfire incidents last year. Eighty-three percent resulted from deliberate ignition. Ninety-three of those incidents occurred between March and May.

NIFRS Wildfire Lead and Area Commander Ryan Thompson stated that such fires can damage rural areas, harm wildlife and communities, and demand heavy resources from firefighters working in difficult conditions.

Thompson advised against lighting open fires in rural areas and recommended using barbecues only in approved spots without leaving them unattended. He stressed fully extinguishing cigarettes and taking litter, including glass, home to avoid fire starts from sunlight.

People should keep parking areas clear for emergency access and keep matches and lighters from children, Thompson added.

On spotting a countryside fire, call 999 for the fire service right away, do not assume others have reported it, and leave the area. Do not fight large fires and report deliberate fire-starting to the PSNI.

NIFRS collaborates with partners under the Wildfire Action Plan to cut wildfire occurrences and prepare responses to safeguard lives and the environment. Thompson emphasised shared responsibility to stop fires before they begin.