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Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) has issued a warning to the public about the dangers posed by wildfires as summer approaches.
For the first time, due to ongoing wildfire threat and predictions of a hot and dry summer, KFRS said it will share risk warnings when the Fire Severity Index (FSI) level is ‘High’ or above throughout Kent, posting on its wildfire page and social media with risks and guidance.
The FSI includes severity levels running from ‘Low’ to ‘Exceptional’, helping the public understand how severe a wildfire could become if one were to ignite in their area, and providing guidance to reduce the chance of fires starting or spreading.
The FSI is hosted on Natural England and can be checked by anyone wanting to know the level in their specific area.
KFRS is also continuing to advise communities to stay informed and vigilant during periods of elevated potential wildfire severity, as predicted this summer.
“Wildfires can devastate communities, wildlife, and our countryside – and the majority start accidentally. Staying aware of fire severity levels and taking simple preventative steps, means everyone can play a crucial part in protecting our county from serious fires this summer.”
Phillip Rice, Group Manager at Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
In 2022, KFRS attended 119 wildfires, with a significant spike during the extreme heat of August (69 attended incidents) and July (39 attended incidents).
Although 2024 saw a drop in wildfire incidents with 24 attended, KFRS has already attended three wildfires since the start of 2025, showing the danger remains year-round.
Of the 160 wildfires attended by KFRS since the start of 2022, a three quarters (3/4s) majority were accidental, demonstrating the greater need for public to be wildfire aware.
Just last week, KFRS responded to five unattended and out-of-control bonfires across Kent, extinguishing each using a variety of hose reel jets, wildfire gear, and main jet hoses.
KFRS Wildfire Safety Tips:
• Don’t discard cigarettes or matches in fields, woodland, or roadsides
• Never leave bonfires or barbecues unattended and keep well clear from greenery or property
• Only barbecue in designated areas, and ensure it’s cold before disposing
• Take your litter with you—glass and cans can ignite fires in dry conditions
• Avoid campfires in the countryside
• Use water, dirt, or sand to fully extinguish any outdoor fire before leaving
• Report deliberate fire-setting anonymously via Crimestoppers: 0800 555 111
If you discover a wildfire:
• Move to a safe location and call 999 with as much detail as possible (location, size, terrain). What3Words is a useful app that can pinpoint your exact location,
• Do not attempt to tackle the fire yourself
• Evacuate the area immediately—wildfires spread rapidly
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