Emergency

Wildfire / grass fire

What to do if there's a wildfire or grass fire near you in the UK: get away from smoke and flames and call 999.

WHAT TO DO NOW

1Call 999 and ask for the fire service; give the location as precisely as you can.
2Move away from the fire and smoke, upwind and uphill where possible.
3If told to evacuate, leave immediately with your grab bag and pets.
4Close windows and doors if smoke is nearby and you're staying put.
5Do not attempt to tackle a spreading fire yourself.
6Follow instructions from the fire service and local authority.

A wildfire is an uncontrolled fire in vegetation such as grassland, heath, moorland or forest. Risk rises in hot, dry, windy weather.

Fast-spreading fire and thick smoke, poor air quality, road closures, evacuation, and risk to homes near open land.

Get away from the fire and smoke. Call 999. Warn others nearby.

Follow fire-service instructions. Evacuate if told to, taking your grab bag and pets. Keep smoke out if sheltering.

Stay away until it's declared safe. Watch for flare-ups and poor air quality. Help neighbours evacuate if needed.

During prolonged fire risk, follow local warnings, avoid open flames outdoors, and report any new fires immediately.

Keep children away from smoke and reassure them; be ready to leave quickly.

Help those with breathing conditions get away from smoke and evacuate early.

Take pets with you if you evacuate; keep them calm and controlled.

Keep a charged phone; follow the fire service and local authority for updates.

This guidance is an editorial explanation of official UK advice. Always follow instructions from the authorities.