A new campaign has been launched to help prevent wildfires this summer. 

The RSPB and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS) have teamed up, alongside several other fire services around the UK to raise awareness and provide tips to protect people and the countryside from the dangers of wildfires.

The Met Office says record-breaking high temperatures are becoming more frequent, long-lasting and intense and that this year could be the hottest summer on record.  

James McNeil, wildfire lead for the National Fire Chiefs Council, said: “Wildfires can ravage the local wildlife, destroying ecosystems in a matter of hours that have taken years to build up. Most heath fires start with human intervention, whether that’s carelessness or a deliberate act, so we need everyone who enjoys our beautiful open spaces to work with us to help protect them.”

A spokesperson for the RSPB added: "We’ve partnered with UK Fire and Rescue Services to launch a campaign to help prevent wildfires this summer.

"By following the Top Tips in our video you can help protect people, landscapes and wildlife.

"Thanks to Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Rescue, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service, Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, London Fire Brigade, West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service, Cumbria Fire & Rescue Service, Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service, National Fire Chiefs Council.

 To find out more and watch the RSPB video visit bit.ly/StopWildfires24