Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service issued a warning to the public ahead of drier weather. The service attended 95 wildfire incidents last year. Eighty-three per cent stemmed from deliberate ignition. Ninety-three incidents occurred between March and May.

Wildfires took place on Slieve Beagh last year. NIFRS Wildfire Lead and Area Commander Ryan Thompson said wildfires damage countryside, wildlife, and communities. He said they require substantial resources from firefighters in tough terrain and heat.

Thompson urged people outdoors to avoid open fires in rural areas. He said to use barbecues only in designated areas and never leave them unattended. He advised taking litter home and extinguishing cigarettes fully before disposal.

Drivers must keep routes clear for emergency access, Thompson said. People seeing a fire should call 999 for the fire service immediately. They should leave the area and not tackle large fires themselves.

Deliberate fire-setting is a crime. Witnesses should report it to PSNI, Thompson said. NIFRS works with partners on the Wildfire Action Plan to reduce wildfire frequency and impact. The plan supports responses to protect lives and the environment.