On 12 August 2025, the Langdale Forest/Fylingdales Moor wildfire was declared a major incident and became the biggest wildfire in the history of our neighbours in the North York Moors National Park.
It was only a matter of time – and it could happen here in the Yorkshire Dales National Park just as easily.
Each year, fire and rescue services receive large volumes of call-outs to fires across the region. Some are quickly contained, while others take days to put out – often at great cost not just financially, but to nature, wildlife, archaeology, farming and public enjoyment.
We don’t want it to happen again. And you can play a part.
A small action or a tiny object can be a cause of fire. Did you know…?
- A discarded cigarette or match anywhere, including from car windows along any road, can cause a tiny spark, which can start an uncontrollable blaze.
- Glass bottles or reflective litter can create sunlight, which will ignite dry vegetation through them.
- Barbecues – disposable or gas – and campfires can wreak havoc in surprising ways. Do not light barbecues or campfires in the National Park.
Moorland and forest fires destroy everything in their path – devastating for wildlife and the environment.
FAQs: outdoor fires – your questions answered
Can I have a fire or barbecue in my garden/holiday accommodation?
Yes, fires and barbecues are allowed in people’s gardens – and often in short-term lets, holiday cottages and campsites, but be sure to check with the owners before you set fire to anything!
In times of high fire risk*, extreme caution should always be exercised, even in the garden. Sparks can fly, and it only takes one to start a wildfire.
*You can check our website and social media pages for updates on high fire risk days/weeks.
What do I do if I see a fire?
If you are concerned about a live or smouldering fire, call 999, ask for the Fire Service and provide them with the location.
If you suspect anyone acting suspiciously, call the Police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
If you find evidence of a recent fire that is cold, this does not need to be reported; however, if you know the land manager or see a ranger, it could be helpful to mention it to them and share the location.
Can landowners have fires?
Landowners – including farmers and tenant farmers – can have fires on their land. Tenants may also include businesses that use fires, such as wood-fired saunas.
In times of high fire risk, lighting any fires should always be avoided, even if you have permission.
Can groups – eg scouts, forest schools, bushcrafters – have fires on private land?
Groups should seek permission from the landowner, including dates and location. In times of high fire risk, lighting any fires should always be avoided, even if you have permission.
Can we light cigarettes?
Care must be taken to fully extinguish and safely dispose of cigarettes at all times.
Cigarette ends and even glass can start fires if left on dry ground.
Can I have a fire or barbecue in winter?
There are very few places in the National Park where fires could be considered responsible at any time. People are encouraged not to light fires anywhere.
How are you promoting this?
A communications campaign is in place with other partners and us, supported by signage and posters, and engagement with local businesses and visitors.
The aim is to ensure everyone understands the risks of outdoor fires and helps protect the National Park.
What else are you doing to stop fires?
Rangers and volunteers patrol regularly, engage with visitors, and remove fire sites.
Additional work includes coordinated communications, engagement with the educational sector and planning with land managers, alongside other National Parks and tourism bodies.
Why are shops allowed to sell disposable barbecues?
The Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority is encouraging retailers not to stock them and is working with other National Parks and local councillors to discourage their sale.
Help spread the message
We want to make everyone aware of the dangers small actions can have and how they can cause wildfires.
We’re asking you to support spreading these messages to all who live, visit and work in the National Park.
You can download these resources to your device and post on social media, websites and other digital platforms. If you have a printer at home, or access to a local library, please also feel free to print these out to display on local community boards etc.
Want printing in bulk to spread the word? Email comms@yorkshiredales.org.uk and we can send you the full print toolkit.