A DORSET fire chief is warning arsonists that they are dicing with death and face being locked up if they are caught sparking a heath fire.

The warning comes after firefighters’ lives were put at risk as they tackled simultaneous blazes at Turbary Park Common in Bournemouth and Corfe Mullen.

The fires broke out within minutes of each other on Sunday evening, stretching emergency services.

Dorset Fire and Rescue Service area manager Keith Bacon, who attended the fire behind Corfe Hills School on Blandford Road, said: “What started as a small fire quickly spread because of the dry conditions and the wind fanning the flames.

“When the first crew from Poole asked for assistance it felt like an eternity before other appliances arrived because the Bournemouth fire was already on-going with three crews in attendance.

“Having to tackle two fires at the same time stretched our resources because it involved the deployment of almost 100 firefighters and appliances from across Dorset.”

Three hectares of heathland at Corfe Mullen were ravaged by fire while 150 square metres of heath at West Howe were destroyed.

The Bournemouth fire is being treated as malicious and an investigation has been launched by Dorset police into the cause of the Corfe Mullen blaze.

Mr Bacon said: “The Corfe Mullen incident was a major fire; as well as heathland being destroyed wildlife perished because the blaze took hold so quickly.

“Fortunately the school wasn’t in any danger and local residents didn’t have to be evacuated because the area was contained by a road and paths. But firefighters were placed in danger; at one stage they were surrounded by flames.

“We are urging people to respect their environment. Don’t discard lit cigarettes on the ground and don’t play with matches. These incidents have shown how little fires can develop into major blazes. Lighting a small bonfire on heathland is potentially dicing with death.”

He added: “People who are caught setting heathland alight face very severe penalties and could end up in prison. If anyone spots suspicious activity they should contact the police immediately.

“Our message is that the public should enjoy spending time on heathland but also take care of it.”