Surrey Fire and Rescue Service urges caution as hot weather raises wildfire and water risks

With a red heat-health alert in place and hot, dry conditions across Surrey, residents are being urged to take extra care while making the most of the sunshine.

Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is reminding the public of the increased risks during this period and sharing important advice to help people stay safe, whether spending time in open countryside or near water.

High wildfire risk across Surrey

Prolonged hot weather significantly increases the risk of wildfires. Heathlands, grass and open spaces can ignite easily, and even a small spark can quickly develop into a serious fire.

Residents are being asked to take simple precautions to help reduce the risk while enjoying Surrey’s outdoor spaces:

• Don’t light campfires or bonfires
• Swap disposable BBQs for picnics
• Take all litter home, especially glass bottles
• Fully extinguish and safely dispose of cigarettes

Area Commander David Nolan, Prevention Lead at Surrey Fire and Rescue Service, said: “The current hot and dry conditions mean the risk of wildfire across Surrey is particularly high. Even something as small as a discarded cigarette or a disposable BBQ can have devastating consequences. We’re asking everyone to take extra care when enjoying the outdoors and to avoid anything that could start a fire. By making simple choices, we can all help protect our communities and our countryside.”

Parents and carers are also encouraged to speak with young people about the dangers of lighting fires in hot, dry weather, as what may seem like harmless fun can quickly get out of control.

Anyone who spots a fire should call 999 immediately.

Staying safe around water

As temperatures rise, many people will also head to rivers, lakes and other open water to cool off. Surrey Fire and Rescue Service is reminding the public that water can be more dangerous than it appears, even on a sunny day.

One of the biggest risks is cold water shock. Most UK inland waters, including those in Surrey, are typically below 15°C. While the surface may feel warm, colder water beneath can quickly lower body temperature.

Jumping straight into water, particularly from height, can trigger an involuntary gasp reflex, increasing the risk of inhaling water.

To stay safe:

• Ease yourself into the water slowly and allow your body to adjust
• Avoid jumping straight in
• Take regular breaks and be mindful of how the cold is affecting you
• If you fall in unexpectedly, follow the RNLI’s advice: Float to Live

People are also being urged to stay alert around water:

• Let someone know where you are going if you plan to be near water
• Keep a safe distance from the edge, as banks can be uneven or slippery
• Avoid swimming in isolated areas or where there are strong currents

With the summer holidays approaching, parents and carers are encouraged to have conversations with children and young people about staying safe near water and knowing what to do if something goes wrong.

We all have a part to play

By taking a few simple precautions, everyone can help keep themselves and others safe throughout the summer.

For more advice, follow Surrey Fire and Rescue Service on social media or visit the wildfire and water safety pages on the Surrey County Council website. The image below shows a wildfire in Surrey Heath

Last updated 23rd June 2026