Avon Fire and Rescue have reported that bonfires have more than doubled and deliberate fires are on the rise since the month of May.
The warm weather and lockdown led to an increase from just 62 in April 2019 to 133 in April 2020 across the service area, more than doubling the number of incidents.
The trend continued into May, with 96 incidents this year compared to just 45 last year.
This number of bonfires puts unnecessary pressure on emergency services which are already stretched during the on-going pandemic.
Simon Shilton, Assistant Chief Fire Officer for AF&RS, said: “The recent prolonged dry weather has made it very easy for fires to spread outdoors.
“These fires can be in areas where access is extremely difficult and water supply is limited.
“If the fire gets out of control, it places tremendous pressure on our resources, with firefighters tied up for a considerable length of time trying to bring them under control.
“These fires can put homes, livestock and the lives of crews and residents at risk.”
Along with bonfires, the Fire Service has also seen an increase in deliberate outdoor fires, mainly started from loose refuse and garden waste.
The Service is calling on communities to keep refuse areas tidy to avoid becoming a target for this type of fire.
Within the service area, Bristol had by far the highest number in May, with 51 incidents. South Glos, North Somerset and BANES had 23, 22 and 15 respectively.
Both types of fire put a huge pressure on emergency crews, potentially delaying those who need it from receiving help.
It also impacts the 999 emergency number which serves the police, fire and ambulance.
