Firefighters Warned Under Pressure As Outdoor Fires Rise Across Hampshire And Isle Of Wight

The Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has warned that staffing levels are failing to keep pace with growing risks after a sharp rise in outdoor fires across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.

According to Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS), outdoor fires increased by 54 per cent in 2025/26 compared with the previous year.

The rise has been largely attributed to grassland, woodland and crop fires during prolonged periods of hot weather.

FBU General Secretary Steve Wright said the increase reflects a wider national trend, with climate change contributing to more wildfires and extreme weather incidents.

He said:

"The increase in outdoor fires in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight reflects a challenge being faced across the UK.

"Climate change is increasing the risk of wildfires and extreme weather incidents at the very time that fire and rescue services are still dealing with the legacy of years of cuts."

Mr Wright said thousands of firefighter posts have been lost across the UK since 2010 and warned that crews are increasingly being asked to do more with fewer resources.

Meanwhile, Hampshire and Isle of Wight FBU Brigade Secretary Dave Hunt praised firefighters for their work but said the rise in outdoor fires highlights growing pressures on the service.

He said:

"Firefighters are responding to more complex incidents and increasingly challenging weather conditions, yet staffing levels have not kept pace with the risks."

The union says firefighters now carry out a wider range of duties than ever before, including prevention work, responding to flooding and supporting communities during extreme weather events.

A report from HIWFRS also noted a slight increase in staff sickness levels, mainly linked to musculoskeletal injuries.

The FBU says this reflects the pressures facing the workforce and can reduce resilience when multiple incidents occur at the same time.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has been approached for comment.