NI Water has issued a reminder to visitors in mountain areas, especially Silent Valley, about the risk of landscape fires during warmer spring weather. Dry vegetation in these locations ignites easily and spreads rapidly to underlying peat, posing challenges for the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.

A fire in Silent Valley in April 2025 burned more than 5 square kilometres of habitat after visitors accidentally started it.

NI Water's Catchment Liaison Officer stated that such fires threaten human life, wildlife, property, the environment, and drinking water catchment areas. The company manages 24 catchments that supply water across Northern Ireland.

Fires remove vegetation, exposing soil to erosion that enters reservoirs and affects water treatment. They also damage habitats and wildlife. Signage at Silent Valley entrances shows yellow, amber, or red warnings based on weather conditions.

NI Water assured customers that tap water quality remains high despite fire risks. The public should follow do's and don'ts in countryside areas during dry spells.

Deliberate fire-setting counts as a criminal offence. Witnesses should contact the PSNI right away.