East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service is urging people not to ignore wildfire prevention advice as crews continue to respond to a high number of outdoor fires.
Figures show the service has attended 12 wildfires across East Sussex during 2026, alongside 284 fires involving grassland, woodland and crops.
Crews are also providing support to other fire and rescue services dealing with major incidents outside the county.
The warning comes as continued hot, dry and windy conditions increase the risk of fires starting and spreading rapidly through the countryside.
People are being told not to light fires in rural areas or open spaces and to take particular care with barbecues, cigarettes and anything capable of producing sparks.
Visitors to the countryside should also take their rubbish home, particularly glass, which can present an additional fire risk.
Anyone who sees a wildfire should move to a safe location, well away from the flames and smoke, before calling 999.
Callers should provide the clearest possible location information, including the nearest access point or a what3words location if available. People should not attempt to tackle a wildfire themselves.
Rural communities and landowners are being advised to keep access routes clear for emergency vehicles and maintain firebreaks where appropriate.
Machinery should be kept clean and properly maintained, while farms should have plans in place for evacuating livestock.
During harvesting and other high-risk work, landowners are encouraged to consider the wind direction, surrounding slopes and neighbouring land to reduce the risk of a fire spreading.
East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said: “The key message is simple: preventing fires before they start is the best protection for our countryside, communities, wildlife and emergency services.”
The service is also investing in new vehicles and equipment to strengthen its wildfire response.
The new vehicles will carry a range of specialist equipment, including 1,200-litre water tanks, and will be capable of drawing water from open sources.
They are expected to be delivered within the next two months and will help crews respond more quickly to wildfires and other incidents.
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