AN URGENT Amber wildfire alert has been issued across Dorset and Wiltshire, with fire crews warning that a single spark could quickly turn into a major blaze.

The alert, issued by Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service, comes after weeks of dry, warm weather – conditions that leave grass, heathland and woodland dangerously flammable.

An Amber warning means fires can ignite easily and spread rapidly, especially across open countryside, cliffs and fields.

Firefighters say the risk is already very real, with several heath fires in Dorset this year burning through large areas, some believed to have been started deliberately.

Group manager Graham Kewley said: “While the dry, warm weather is very welcome, it does mean the ground and foliage are dry, leading to a greater risk of fire spreading if something happens to cause ignition.

“We would urge anyone going out and about in our beautiful countryside over the coming days to take extra care and be vigilant, follow our advice to #BringAPicnicNotABarbecue, and avoid having campfires on heathland or in woodlands.”

Residents and visitors are being warned to change their behaviour immediately to reduce the risk.

That means:

• No barbecues or campfires in the countryside
• Properly disposing of cigarettes — never throwing them from cars
• Reporting any fire immediately by calling 999
• Avoiding flares, fires or BBQs near beaches and cliffs

People are also urged not to attempt tackling fires themselves unless it’s very small — as conditions mean flames can escalate in seconds.

Fire crews say early reporting is critical to stopping small fires becoming major incidents.

Anyone who sees suspicious behaviour is urged to call police on 999, or report information anonymously via Crimestoppers.

With warm weather set to continue, the message is clear: enjoy the countryside, but one careless moment could cause serious damage.