24/04/2026
Our colleagues at West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service operate the WSFRS Wildfire Prevention Patrol.
This prolonged dry spell is a sharp reminder that wildfire risk is no longer something that happens โsomewhere else.โ It is a real and growing challenge for our local parks, open spaces, and communities.
That is why the West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service Wildfire Prevention Patrol is such a vital initiative.
With recent fires being spotted in and around Bersted Brooks and other open spaces, early intervention, visible patrols, public engagement, and rapid intelligence gathering can make all the difference. A single discarded cigarette, unattended BBQ, glass bottle, or deliberate act can quickly escalate when vegetation is tinder dry.
These patrols matter because they:
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Deter risky behaviour through visible presence
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Educate residents and visitors on fire prevention
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Identify hotspots and vulnerable areas early
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Support faster response times through local awareness
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Help protect wildlife, habitats, homes, and public safety
Places like Bersted Brooks are valuable community assets. A refuge for nature, recreation, wellbeing, and biodiversity. They should be enjoyed, not endangered.
As conditions remain dry, wildfire prevention becomes everyoneโs responsibility. Please take litter home, avoid naked flames, report suspicious activity, and call 999 immediately if you see fire.
Huge credit to the teams involved in proactive prevention work. Quiet, preventative action often goes unseen but it protects communities when it matters most.
How can we build even stronger public awareness around wildfire risk in our parks and greenspaces?
Email: [email protected]
Tel: 03458 729719
Arun District Council Bersted Parish Council