Extreme Fire Risk: Protecting Banstead Commons During Prolonged Heatwave

August 2026

The UK is currently experiencing its fifth heatwave of the summer, following an exceptionally dry period and what has been recorded as the driest July on record. These conditions have created an exceptional risk of wildfire, particularly across dry grassland and heath habitats such as those found on Banstead Commons.

Local Incident on Banstead Downs

Last week, our operations team responded to reports from local residents and cleared the remains of a bonfire on Banstead Downs, alongside a significant quantity of associated litter.

In current conditions these incidents present a serious and immediate fire risk. Dry vegetation can ignite extremely easily, and even small, unattended or poorly extinguished fires can spread rapidly.

National Context: Wildfires Across the UK

Recent events across the UK highlight the severity of the situation. A major wildfire at Dunwich Heath in Suffolk—managed by the National Trust—burned over 100 hectares of protected heathland and required a large-scale emergency response, with over 100 firefighters tackling the blaze.

The fire caused widespread ecological damage, destroying habitats for rare species including nightjars, Dartford warblers and important invertebrate populations. Such long-term environmental damage will take years or even decades to recover.

Fire services and national bodies have warned that wildfires are becoming more frequent and are no longer isolated incidents, driven by increasingly hot and dry conditions.

Risks to Public Safety

Wildfires do not only threaten wildlife and landscapes—they pose serious risks to people. Fires can spread unpredictably, and even after flames are extinguished, the ground can remain dangerously hot beneath the surface.

Fire Service Guidance

In line with national Fire & Rescue Service advice:

• If you see a fire, call 999 immediately – do not assume it has already been reported
• Early reporting is critical and can prevent a small incident escalating into a major wildfire
• Do not attempt to tackle fires yourself unless it is safe and very small

How You Can Help Protect the Commons

We ask all visitors to Banstead Commons to act responsibly during this period of extreme fire risk:

• Do not light BBQs, campfires or bonfires. This is against our Act and Byelaws and is illegal
• Take all litter home, particularly glass bottles, which can intensify heat
• Dispose of cigarettes safely – never drop them on the ground
• Report any signs of fire or unsafe behaviour immediately

Thank You

We would like to thank local residents who continue to report concerns to us. Your vigilance plays a vital role in helping us respond quickly and protect Banstead Commons.

By working together, we can help preserve this valuable landscape for wildlife and for public enjoyment.