25 August 2026
Following yesterday’s fire incident near the path leading to the desalination plant at Corbière, the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service, JFRS, is encouraging Islanders to remain alert to the risk of wildfires, despite recent rainfall and cooler temperatures. The open land fire was caused by a bonfire, spreading rapidly due to strong winds.
Following Jersey's hottest summer on record, with temperatures reaching 39.3°C, the Island experienced significantly increased wildfire risk as prolonged dry conditions left vegetation highly vulnerable to ignition. While recent weather has improved conditions, JRFS warns that the threat has not disappeared.
Earlier this month, firefighters took part in specialist wildfire training at the former Oaklands Hotel site. Led by Crew Commander Harry Matthews, White Watch learnt about the threat of ‘fire tornados’, how quickly wildfires can develop and spread, and the influence of certain common vegetation such as gorse to fuel the blaze.
Crew Commander Matthews explained that wildfire training has increased in recent years due to periods of warm, dry weather becoming more common: “The exercise helped crews understand fire behaviour, predict fire spread and develop strategies for safely tackling incidents in Jersey's rural areas, where highly flammable vegetation such as gorse can fuel rapid fire growth.”
This training is delivered annually, however due to experiencing warmer and drier weather, this has increased recently as the threat of a wildfire becomes greater.
Station Commander Chris Smith, Head of Fire Prevention, said: “The Fire Service would like to thank Islanders for their support and responsible behaviour throughout the summer. However, we would encourage Islanders not to become complacent, as summers continue to become warmer and drier, the potential for wildfires to occur in Jersey remains a very real risk.”
Residents and visitors are urged to follow fire safety advice, avoid lighting fires near vegetation, and report any wildfire immediately by calling 999.
More advice and information on fire safety is available on the States of Jersey Fire and Rescue Service website.
gov.je