National nature reserve in Doncaster to close as fire risk reaches exceptional level
"The safety of visitors, staff and wildlife is our first priority.”
Humberhead Peatlands National Nature Reserve at Hatfield, near Doncaster, will be closed to visitors from Thursday August 13 due to an exceptional risk of wildfire.
The decision has been taken after the Fire Severity Index, which measures the risk of wildfire based on weather and ground conditions, is forecast to reach Level 5 ("exceptional") on Thursday.
The reserve is likely to remain closed on Friday, though this is less certain, and visitors are advised to check for updates (via social media) before travelling.
Paul Duncan, Deputy Director for Natural England in Yorkshire said: "The safety of visitors, staff and wildlife is our first priority. Habitats like Humberhead Peatlands are especially vulnerable to wildfire, and an incident could cause lasting damage to a landscape that has taken thousands of years to form, as well as putting people at serious risk.
"We understand this closure will be disappointing for visitors, but the exceptional fire risk forecast for this week means it's the right decision to protect people and this precious habitat.
“We'd ask everyone to respect the closure and to check our Facebook page for the latest updates, particularly for Friday, before making the journey."
The reserve will reopen as soon as it is safe to do so, and updates will be posted on the Humberhead Peatlands NNR Facebook page.
With the exceptional risk of wildfires starting and spreading, if you are visiting the countryside, please follow this advice to reduce the risk of harm to people and nature:
- Pack a picnic, instead of a BBQ
- Take your rubbish home – glass starts fires, rubbish fuels a fire
- If you see a fire unattended - get to a safe place and call 999.