New roadside signs are warning people of the threat of wildfires in the countryside.
Temporary fire alerts are being displayed across North Yorkshire to highlight the dangers of wildfires, particularly those started by campfires and disposable barbecues in remote, dry areas.
The signs are part of the Don’t Spark Disaster campaign, launched after last year’s major wildfire at Fylingdales Moor, and will remain in place during the rest of the summer.
Carl Les, leader of North Yorkshire Council, said: "North Yorkshire is home to some of the country's most beautiful and treasured landscapes, and we want everyone to enjoy them safely.
"Sadly, despite last year’s major incident at Fylingdales Moor, we continue to get reports of campfires being lit and left smouldering.
"There is understandable fear in some communities that there could be a repeat of last summer’s fire.
"These new roadside warning signs provide a clear reminder that fires, barbecues and other open flames have no place in our countryside.
"We know only too well how devastating they can be and how easily a wildfire can start."
The Fylingdales blaze is believed to have been caused by cooking using a naked flame, such as a campfire or gas burner.
Dry conditions at the time fuelled the fire, which covered 20 square kilometres—10 times the size of the Great Fire of London.
Joel Brookfield, director of recreation and wellbeing at the North York Moors National Park Authority, said: "While the term ‘wildfire’ might lead people to think that these events are natural or spontaneous, it’s the actions of people that pose the greatest risks.
"These highly visible signs will raise awareness of wildfire dangers and how everyone can reduce the risk, reinforcing the simple but vital messages at the heart of the Don’t Spark Disaster campaign."
The public is still encouraged to explore North Yorkshire’s countryside, but the campaign emphasises safe choices—such as picnicking without on-site cooking—to reduce fire risk.
The campaign is a collaboration between the North York Moors National Park Authority, North Yorkshire Council, the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, Forestry England, and North Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service.
Derek Twine, chair of the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority, said: "By installing these signs at key locations around the Dales, we are reinforcing a simple but vital message—don't spark disaster.
"Everyone coming into a National Park has a part to play in preventing wildfires by taking their litter home, disposing of cigarettes safely, and never lighting barbecues or campfires."
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