Staffordshire County Council is urging visitors to Cannock Chase not to light fires or use barbecues following two significant blazes in the past week.
Crews from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service attended a large fire at Sherbrook Valley on the afternoon of 5 August 2026 and remained on site damping down to prevent further spread. A second fire occurred the previous week on heathland measuring the size of a football pitch, which resulted in the closure of a section of Chase Road.
Damage and Investigation Findings
Both fires caused extensive damage to the landscape and resulted in the deaths of protected wildlife. An investigation into the second fire found it was caused by a disposable barbecue.
Cannock Chase is home to a wide range of rare wildlife and habitats, many of which can take years to recover from fire damage.
Dry Conditions Increase Risk
With ground conditions remaining exceptionally dry and temperatures continuing to increase, the risk of wildfires is high. Even a small spark can quickly spread during prolonged periods of dry weather.
Hayley Coles, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Communities and Culture at Staffordshire County Council, said: "This is the second serious fire we have seen on Cannock Chase in the space of a week, which is why we are reminding people to be extra careful. Both of these incidents have caused significant damage to the landscape and local wildlife. These fires put people, wildlife and nearby properties at risk and can have long-lasting consequences for the area."
Safety Advice for Visitors
Countryside rangers are reminding visitors to follow these steps to help prevent wildfires:
Do not use disposable barbecues or light open fires. Fully extinguish and properly dispose of cigarettes and smoking materials. Take litter home or use designated bins. Avoid leaving glass bottles behind, as they can intensify heat and increase fire risk. Do not use camping stoves or gas burners unless in designated areas where permitted.
The council is also asking people to remain away from any areas affected by fire for their own safety and to allow fire service and rangers to focus on managing the situation. Anyone who sees signs of fire should call 999 immediately.