Be Prepared: Fire Awareness Training

With the increasingly hot, dry weather in recent years, many of us will have spotted plumes of smoke rising and had a sense of dread. Are you and your site prepared? Know what to do – and what not to do?

Bill Wheeler has many years experience as a ranger here in the UK until he emigrated to New Zealand 20 yrs ago and continued in the sector there. He is now Operations Manager, TECTPARK, in Western Bay, NZ. He has a wealth of experience dealing with wildfires.

This day will not go into the use of heavy gear as we rely on the Fire Brigade for that; instead, Bill will focus on how fire behaves in different vegetation types, how to prepare for the outbreak of fire & keeping your site, visitors and yourself safe.

In summary:

• Understanding vegetation fires & fire behaviour
• Preparing your site for wildfire – with a walk at Martin Down NNR in pm to look at practical aspects of the training
• Preparing yourself for wildfire
• Staying safe on the fire line

After lunch, we’ll travel in convoy just a few miles up the road to Martin Down NNR. This is the largest chalk grassland areas in the country, after Salisbury Plain and Porton Down and boasts a wealth of rare wildlife and archaeology. With 24/7 public access, it is very vulnerable to an outbreak of wildfire. We’ll look in practical terms at what was discussed in the morning.

Tea/coffee will be provided, but please bring a packed lunch.

When travelling to a study day please car share or use public transport where possible. Pick up from (and drop off to) Salisbury Railway Station can be arranged, please contact Rachel on admin@countrysidemanagement.org.uk to organise.