Active: August 2026
Our position
Essex Wildlife Trust is committed to protecting wildlife, habitats and providing a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors to our nature reserves.
Due to periods of prolonged drought and increased wildfire risk, we have introduced a temporary ban on smoking and vaping across all of the Trust’s nature reserves. This is in addition to our existing guidance that fires, barbecues, and other naked flames are not permitted at any time on any Essex Wildlife Trust nature reserves.
These temporary restrictions have been introduced to reduce the risk of accidental fires that could have devastating consequences for wildlife, habitats, our neighbours and surrounding communities.
Why this is important
Many of Essex’s most important habitats, including heathlands, grasslands, reedbeds and woodland, become highly vulnerable during prolonged dry conditions. Even a small ignition source can lead to a rapidly spreading wildfire, as seen elsewhere in the region this summer.
Wildfires can:
- Destroy habitats that have taken decades or even centuries to develop
- Kill or injure wildlife, including protected and vulnerable species
- Destroy nests, eggs and young animals during the breeding season
- Damage soils and plant communities
- Threaten neighbouring homes, businesses and farmland
Recovery from wildfires can take many years, and in some cases habitats may never fully recover.
Our approach
We recognise that most visitors act responsibly and share our commitment to protecting nature. By introducing temporary restrictions during periods of high fire risk, we aim to minimise avoidable risks while keeping our reserves open for people to enjoy.
Temporary smoking and vaping restrictions will also be communicated through on-site signage, on reserve webpages and on social media. Restrictions will be lifted when conditions allow.
How visitors can help
Preventing wildfires is one of the most effective ways we can all help protect wildlife. Everyone has a role to play. When visiting our nature reserves, please:
- Do not smoke or vape when temporary bans are in place
- Never light fires or use barbecues
- Take all litter home with you and dispose of it accordingly
- Keep to designated paths where requested
- Avoid parking on dry grass, car exhausts can be hot enough to ignite vegetation beneath them
- Report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999
Further guidance on how you can help protect nature reserves during heatwaves
Essex Wildlife Trust is actively working to reduce fire risks on nature reserves and will stop certain conservation activities and events if it is deemed high risk for the site.
FAQs
How long will the ban last?
We will update this position statement to inactive when wildfire risks have reduced to a safe level.
What do I do if I see a fire or smoke?
Report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999.
What should I do if I see someone smoking or vaping?
If you feel comfortable, politely let them know about the temporary restriction. Otherwise, report it to a member of staff or volunteer. Never put yourself at risk. If you see a fire, call 999 immediately.
