One Year Since the Langdale/Fylingdales Moor Wildfire Was Declared a Major Incident

Today (13 August 2026) marks one year since North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service declared the Langdale / Fylingdales Moor wildfire a major incident.

The wildfire was one of the most significant incidents faced by the Service, and once which required a sustained multi-agency response.

As the Service reflects on the anniversary, it is paying tribute to everyone who played a role in responding to the incident.

CFO Jonathan Dyson said: “The Langdale wildfire was an incredibly challenging incident. One year on, I would like to thank every colleague who contributed to the response. I am also extremely grateful to the other fire and rescue services, gamekeepers, farmers, landowners and partner agencies whose assistance was invaluable throughout the incident. I would also like to thank the local communities and businesses affected by the wildfire. Despite the disruption they showed tremendous resilience and support.”

In June 2026 the Service published the findings from its operational debrief into the wildfire. The report highlighted the scale and complexity of the incident, captured valuable learning and identified opportunities to strengthen future responses to large-scale wildfires and other large-scale incidents.

CFO Jonathan Dyson added: “The publication of our debrief was an important milestone, allowing us to share lessons identified and demonstrate our commitment to continuous improvement. While we hope never to face an incident of that scale again, we are determined to learn from every experience and ensure we are as prepared as possible for future challenges.”

Since the wildfire, the Service has continued to build on those lessons and deliver a programme of improvements.

Fire Control staffing has been enhanced to provide greater resilience and support during prolonged and complex incidents, while wildfire training is being expanded for firefighters, incident commanders and Tactical Advisors.

The Service is also developing its use of drone technology, giving crews improved situational awareness and intelligence to support decision-making on the incident ground.

Work is also underway to improve access to water supplies in remote locations. This includes the development of new couplings that will enable crews to quickly connect to farmers’ water bowsers when additional water resources are required.

In addition, a review of the Service’s wildfire fleet is ongoing, with further specialist vehicles expected to be introduced from 2027. Trials and evaluations of wildfire-specific personal protective equipment are also taking place to ensure firefighters have the most appropriate equipment for operating safely and effectively in challenging wildfire conditions.

Jo Coles, Deputy Mayor for Policing, Fire and Crime said: “This time last year, a fire was raging on the North Yorkshire moors, burning into precious peatbeds and destroying around 25km2 of precious moorland. It was one of the largest wildfires ever in the UK. This year, with wildfires once again threatening farmland, woods, parks in our area and elsewhere across the country, the Mayor David Skaith and I would like to once again thank all those who are responding to these incidents. North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service does an incredible job to keep our county safe, but for a rural region like ours we will always need to help and support of partners such as farmers, landowners, gamekeepers and businesses as well as the wider community.

“Given the cause of our fire last year was confirmed to almost certainly be an open cooking flame and the recent fire in Wykeham Forest, near Scarborough was caused by a disposable barbecue, David Skaith and I have been calling for a ban on the sale of disposable barbecues. It’s extremely welcome to hear that the Government is now considering forcing this change, but we cannot afford to wait for another major wildfire before action is taken. All retailers can show leadership now and remove these items from sale.”

As warmer and drier weather continues to increase the risk of wildfires, North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is also reminding people to take care when visiting the countryside. The Service is asking members of the public to:

• Avoid lighting campfires or disposable barbecues in the countryside.
• Dispose of cigarettes and smoking materials responsibly.
• Take all rubbish home, particularly glass bottles and jars.
• Report signs of fire immediately by calling 999.

CFO Dyson closes: “Everyone has a role to play in protecting our countryside. Many wildfires can be prevented. By following simple safety advice, people can help protect wildlife, habitats, local communities and the emergency services who respond when fires occur.”

Watch the video below of Chief Fire Officer Jonathan Dyson. The video is also available on YouTube https://youtube.com/shorts/dlIoK_VoGXI?feature=share