VISITORS to the countryside are being warned to take care not to start fires which could devastate areas.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service is urging people to take care when they head out into the country.

The force has tackled numerous moors fires of varying levels of damage over the last few years.

Due to the recent dry weather the fire brigade’s Fire Severity Index for the countryside is classed as high.

A spokesman for the fire service said: "Every year, fires destroy thousands of acres of countryside and wildlife habitats.

"Most of these fires are started deliberately and the majority are due to carelessness.

"While North Yorkshire Fire Service want people to enjoy the countryside we also want to remind people of some important countryside safety points."

The service urges people to make sure cigarettes are put out properly and to not light barbecues or open fires near, or on, moorland.

Barbecues should be fully extinguished and do not leave glass bottles around in case the sunlight shining through them causes fires.