Uncontrolled wildfires on Dartmoor prompt police and fire service warning

Police and fire crews have issued a warning after a number of deliberate wildfires were reported in the Dartmoor area during the Christmas period.

Okehampton Police said emergency services attended five separate fires that had been deliberately started since Christmas Day. 

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Four of the incidents occurred on West Anstey Common, with another reported at Meldon Common near Chagford. 

Officers said dry and windy conditions helped the fires spread quickly.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the incidents were being treated seriously and reminded the public that deliberately starting fires is a criminal offence.

PC Julian Fry said: “The deliberate setting of unauthorised fires in our public open spaces is a criminal offence that destroys wildlife habitats, threatens historic sites, and puts lives at risk.

“Arson is always treated seriously by police and the courts. In the most serious cases, where life is endangered, it can carry a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.”

Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service also raised concerns about the number of incidents attended during the current swaling season. 

Group Manager Ian Donovan said fire crews had seen a significant increase in deliberately lit fires.

“This activity is illegal and must stop,” he said. “When fires are deliberately started and left unattended, they place a huge strain on emergency services and can prevent crews from responding to other incidents where lives may be at risk.”

The fires have sparked discussion online, with some residents pointing to traditional land management practices, such as controlled burning, which were historically used on the moor. 

Others said modern conditions, including dry weather and unmanaged vegetation, make such fires far more dangerous today.

Police and fire services have stressed that any burning carried out without proper permission and safety controls is illegal and dangerous. 

Members of the public are urged to report suspicious activity or deliberate fires by calling 101, or 999 in an emergency. 

Anonymous reports can also be made to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.