OFFICIALS have warned of the increased risk of heath fires as they prepare for a “difficult period of wildfire activity”.

The team behind Poole’s Heathland has urged people not to have barbecues on heathlands or undesignated beaches or nature reserves.

A spokesperson said: “With a week of dry easterly winds yielding little or no precipitation, this week could be the start of a difficult period of wildfire activity.

“Devastating wildfires on the heath can start from a carelessly discarded cigarette or a little spark of fire.

“Not many people know that fire can travel underground on the heath. It moves via the roots of plants that can catch alight from even the tiniest spark from a disposable barbecue, which are illegal on our heathlands.

“To protect wildlife, homes and potentially save lives, do not light fires or have barbecues on heathlands or at undesignated beaches or nature reserves.

“If you see smoke, a barbecue or any kind of fire that is out of control, make sure to get yourself to safety and call 999 immediately noting the nearest gate or landmark.

“Please share this message to anyone who visits our heaths to help spread the message not wildfires.”