Civil Air Support volunteers are providing a crucial early warning capability from the air as the UK continues to face the threat of wildfires during the current heatwave.
The charity, which primarily responds to requests from partner organizations and the public, has also instructed its pilots to remain vigilant during routine flights for any potential risks to people, wildlife, or the environment.
This proactive approach has already proven its effectiveness in the past week, as Civil Air Support pilots spotted and reported two suspicious fires in remote rural areas in Hampshire and Cornwall. By capturing photographs and immediately reporting their observations to Air Traffic Control, the pilots were able to assist the relevant Fire and Rescue Services in responding rapidly to the incidents.
With the current hot and dry weather conditions, even small ignition sources such as discarded cigarettes, disposable barbecues, or fireworks can quickly escalate into serious wildfires. In remote areas, these fires can go undetected for some time, making early intervention critical in containing them before they threaten homes, infrastructure, and natural habitats.
Civil Air Support, with a team of 120 active volunteer pilots and aircraft across the UK, is able to provide consistent and reliable aerial observations, thanks to its established operating procedures and coordination team. The charity emphasizes that its role is not to replace emergency services but to serve as an additional set of eyes in the sky to aid in prompt response and action.
“We’re not replacing the emergency services,” a spokesperson for Civil Air Support stated. “Our role is simply to be another pair of eyes in the sky. When our pilots happen to spot something unusual during a flight, they know exactly how to report it through the proper channels. If that helps firefighters arrive even a few minutes earlier, it can make a significant difference to the outcome.”
The charity also stresses that its pilots never interfere with emergency operations or investigate incidents at low levels. All observations are made while adhering to Civil Aviation Authority regulations and Air Traffic Control instructions.
As extreme weather events become more frequent, Civil Air Support believes that responsible aerial observation can play a key role in protecting communities, wildlife, and the countryside.
In case of spotting signs of a wildfire, the public is urged to report it immediately by calling 999 and asking for the Fire and Rescue Service. They are also reminded to avoid lighting fires or disposable barbecues in the countryside and to dispose of cigarettes responsibly, especially during prolonged dry weather.
