With the recent warm weather bringing with it a risk of landscape fires this weekend, NI Water is asking people visiting its sites, including Silent Valley, to be aware of the increased dangers.

Dry vegetation in upland areas can ignite quickly, with flames spreading rapidly. Once established, these fires are extremely difficult to control and place significant pressure on the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.

In April 2026, a fire in the Mournes caused damage to more than 1000 hectares of important habitat, highlighting the serious consequences that can result from a single careless action.

NI Water senior facilities manager Patricia McKee said: “While we want people to enjoy the good weather, we ask that people visiting our sites, including Silent Valley, remain vigilant. Landscape fires put people, wildlife, property and the wider environment at risk. They can also have an impact on the drinking water catchment areas which NI Water works to protect.

“Anyone visiting our sites should check the warning signs at entrance points, which will indicate whether a yellow, amber or red wildfire warning is in place in line with relevant weather conditions. The public are reminded that lighting fires and barbeques on our sites is strictly prohibited. Please help us protect these important water catchment areas by acting responsibly and reporting any suspicious activity to the PSNI immediately.”

NI Water is asking visitors to take extra care during warm, dry weather and follow this advice:

• Do not light campfires on open ground or use disposable BBQs.
• Never try to tackle a fire yourself.
• If you see a fire, gather your family or group and move upwind to a safe, fuel-free area such as a car park.
• Call 999 immediately and report the fire and its location to the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service.
• Leave the area if asked to do so and follow all instructions from the emergency services.
• If you witness anyone setting fires, contact the PSNI straight away.

When spending time in the countryside, please help protect these special places by following simple safety steps:

• Leave no trace: take litter home and dispose of BBQs safely and responsibly.
• Never fly-tip waste material.
• Make sure cigarettes and other flammable items are fully extinguished.
• Never throw cigarette ends from car windows.
•  Avoid open fires in the countryside.

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Media enquiries to the NI Water Press Office via email to press.office@niwater.com