The local fire service is warning people about the dangers of deliberately setting fires after an increase in incidents due to the warmer weather.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service was called to around 30 outdoor fires over the Easter weekend, many of which were preventable.

It is easy for small, outdoor fires to become uncontrollable, especially in dry weather.

They can cause damage to landscapes, wildlife and communities. 

It also puts pressure on firefighters, who have to cope with the increased demand during the hotter months.

On Monday, 20 April, at 8:30pm, crews were called to an area of woodland off Station Road in Draycott-in-the-Clay.

They discovered a fire which had spread to an area measuring 30 metres by five metres. 

It was thought that the fire was deliberate although no one was injured.

advertisement

Head of Prevent, Protect and Partnerships, Ian Read, said: "As the weather gets warmer, the risk of outdoor fire increases because the grass gets very dry, meaning fires can start and spread more quickly.

"This means that what might start as a bit of fun can have catastrophic consequences and put lives in danger.

"I would urge parents to speak to their children about the dangers of deliberately setting fires; it is an offence and we will support investigations by colleagues from Staffordshire Police."