Understand
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service highlights challenges in locating remote Lake District wildfires
Overview
Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service has warned that locating wildfires reported by visitors in remote parts of the Lake District is made difficult due to callers' unfamiliarity with the landscape. Freedom of Information figures show that while the service usually meets its 15-minute response target around 87% of the time, some call-outs have taken significantly longer. Officials noted that a transient tourist population and vague location descriptions contribute to the challenge, while the Country Land and Business Association has called for increased resources and better equipment, including drones and aerial capabilities, for fire services across England and Wales.
Key points
- Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service stated that finding wildfires called in by visitors in remote areas is hampered by callers' unfamiliarity with the landscape.
- Freedom of Information data shows response times occasionally exceeded standard targets, with one call-out taking 81 minutes and two others taking about 50 minutes.
- Cumbria recorded 96 wildfires so far in 2026, down from 230 last year due to a wetter climate and rainfall preventing dry vegetation.
- The Country Land and Business Association obtained the figures via a Freedom of Information request and is calling for more resources and equipment for fire services.
- Cumbria Fire and Rescue Service currently lacks drones in its inventory, which officials noted would help monitor the spread of wildfires.