Firefighters are reminding countryside lovers of the need to take care in the great outdoors and keep in mind basic fire safety precautions after a large gorse fire in Nantmor was found to be caused accidentally by campers using a naked flame.

Around 35 firefighters spent almost 12 hours tackling a large gorse fire affecting around 70 acres in the Cae Dafydd area of Nantmor, Caerarfon yesterday afternoon and into the early hours of this morning.

Gwyn Roberts from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service said:

"Every year, outdoor fires destroy acres of countryside and wildlife habitats, and tie up valuable resources which could be saving lives elsewhere.

"Vegitation is extremely dry at the moment and outdoor fires can spread quickly. Campers and walkers should avoid the use of naked flames and camp in designated areas."

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service is also issuing the following advice to help cut the risk of accidental fires in the open:

Fires in the open such as campfires can easily get out of control. Campers and caravanners should always check with landowners whether barbecues or fires are permitted and should never cook near flammable materials or long grass - a fire can destroy a small tent in less than 60 seconds.

Barbecues should also be used with great care - they should be sited on a firm level base of non-flammable material, away from buildings, trees or other items which could catch fire. Once lit, the barbecue should never be left unattended, and a bucket of sand or water should be kept nearby. Children and animals should also be kept well away from the barbecue to avoid accidents. After cooking, the embers should be allowed to cool completely before disposing of them.

Other hazards include cigarettes and glass bottles. Lit cigarettes should never be thrown out of the car window, and all cigarettes and smoking materials must be extinguished properly. Glass or glass bottles should never be left in woodlands - sunlight shining through glass could cause a large fire.

If you do see a fire, report it immediately. Do not attempt to tackle fires that cannot be put out with a bucket of water - leave the area as soon as possible.