'Extreme risk of wildfires' county-wide warning

Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service Three firefighters in red uniforms tackle a fire in the countryside behind a fence. Large plumes of smoke can be seen. Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service
Firefighters said they had dealt with a number of wildfires as temperatures soared

An "extreme wildfire risk" warning has been issued covering an entire county as temperatures soar.

Following a Met Office alert, Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service said grass and other vegetation were extremely dry and urged anyone who spotted a fire to call 999.

The service said it was putting up notices in car parks, on footpaths and on fence posts throughout the county warning people not light open fires or barbecues.

It said crews had already dealt with a number of blazes and urged people to alert them of "anything or anyone near the fire in immediate danger".

A spokesman for the service said: "If you spot a wildfire, get to a safe place and call 999, telling us as much as you can about the location - What3Words is very helpful.

"Also the direction of the fire and what is burning.

"When the wildfire risk has reduced the warning notices will be taken down."

He added that, with dry conditions forecast, it was important to be wary and protect the "beautiful Cumbrian landscape".

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