SPECIALIST overseas training could help combat the threat of wildfires in the district this summer.

Richard Hawley, of West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, was amongst a contingent from the UK that travelled to Spain for an intensive programme.

Techniques examined during the week-long trip, to Tivissa, in Catalonia, included the controlled burning of vegetation as a means of tackling fast-moving wildfires.

Mr Hawley, the West Yorkshire brigade's lead wildfire officer, says: "This was a fantastic chance to learn from some of the best in the world when it comes to wildfires, and put theoretical knowledge into practice.

"By burning vegetation, you take the fuel away from the oncoming fire. It’s a tactic that is within national guidance and used routinely around the world – this week allowed us to see experts share their knowledge to limit wildfire development.

"We are looking to see if some international firefighting tactics can be implemented in West Yorkshire so that we are well prepared to respond if we have a repeat of last summer, when the county was hugely affected by wildfires.

"The challenges we faced last year have led to the service investing in additional equipment. We will soon be getting two new all-terrain vehicles and extra personal protective equipment for wildfire crews and our non-specialist firefighters. We are committed to improving our wildfire provision and it was decided after last year that we needed this additional gear."

Last summer, when the country saw record-breaking temperatures, there was a surge in wildfires.

Nationally, firefighters dealt with nearly 25,000 vegetation fires during the summer – the highest total in at least a decade.

In West Yorkshire, crews attended over four times the number of wildfires compared to the previous year.

Brigade resources to tackle moorland fires include a specialist unit based at Keighley.

Mr Hawley added: "Wildfires develop very quickly and take hold faster than people can run.

"They can be started by a carelessly used barbecue or even broken glass.

"By embracing the latest tactics we should be able to stop them in their path and hopefully see a lot less destruction this summer."

West Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service recently launched its #BeMoorAware campaign, which aims to prevent wildfires.

Advice to the public includes always take your rubbish home after picnics, observe all signs and notices, follow the National Trust Countryside Code, and never throw lit cigarette ends onto the ground.