Confiscated! Whitby fire crew seize firelighters just hours after new wildfire warning

The Whitby crew was called into action at 2.41pm on Wednesday (July 30), after reports were received of a campfire in a dry wooded area in Goathland. On arrival the campfire was no longer in use, crews confiscated fire lighters and gave advice to the responsible person.

The call came just one day after fire and rescue services across Yorkshire strengthened their joint wildfire prevention message.

To help reduce the risk of another devastating wildfire season, West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service and Humberside Fire and Rescue Service have joined together to amplify the #BeMoorAware campaign ahead of the summer holidays.

Originally developed by West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, #BeMoorAware has helped raise awareness of wildfire risks and promote responsible behaviour in the countryside for several years.

This summer, fire and rescue services across Yorkshire are strengthening that approach by sharing the same prevention messages, helping to extend the reach and impact of wildfire safety advice across the region.

The renewed focus comes as fire and rescue services continue to respond to wildfire incidents across the region and beyond. One of the most significant was the Langdale/ Fylingdales Moor wildfire in North Yorkshire in August 2025. A major incident was declared on August 13 and, at its peak, the fire covered around 25 square kilometres.

Firefighters from across the country worked in extremely challenging conditions over a prolonged period to bring the blaze under control.

Following an investigation, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service concluded the fire was caused by a naked flame from a campfire or gas burner.

Assistant District Commander Mick Rhodes, Lead Wildfire Officer for West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: “Yorkshire's moorlands are among our most valuable natural environments, but during prolonged periods of warm, dry weather they can become incredibly vulnerable.

“Most wildfires are preventable. By making simple choices, such as leaving disposable barbecues at home, taking litter away with you and never lighting open fires on the moors, everyone has a role to play in protecting our countryside, wildlife and the communities that surround it.”

Chris Tyler, Group Manager in South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service's Community Safety Team said: “Wildfires continue to pose a significant risk. Not only are animals and habitats destroyed by wildfires, but these incidents often take a long time for our crews to extinguish, reducing their availability to respond to other potentially life-threatening emergencies.”

Tom Hirst, Director of Community Risk and Resilience at North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service said: ““In August 2025, North Yorkshire experienced one of the largest and most complex wildfires recorded in England, affecting around 25 square kilometres of moorland and forestry across Fylingdales Moor and the surrounding Langdale Forest at its peak.

“The incident demonstrated how modern wildfires can devastate our landscapes, place significant pressure on emergency services, and affect local communities and the wider resilience system.

“We are pleased to be working with neighbouring fire and rescue services to raise awareness of the risks associated with unsafe behaviours and the positive steps we can all take to help prevent wildfires.”