Hertfordshire's farmers have been praised for playing a vital role in helping firefighters tackle field fires and wildfires during periods of hot and dry weather.

Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service (HFRS) has highlighted its partnership with the National Farmers' Union (NFU), which is now entering its fourth year.

The partnership brings together firefighters and farmers to respond to rural emergencies, with agricultural equipment, local knowledge and additional water supplies helping crews when fires break out.

It comes after prolonged periods of hot and dry weather have increased the risk of fires in the Hertfordshire countryside this summer.

The partnership between HFRS and the NFU's Hertfordshire branch was established in 2022 and is believed to have been among the first arrangements of its kind in the country.

According to Hertfordshire County Council, the approach has since become an example of best practice, with similar partnerships adopted by other fire and rescue services.

Over the past four years farmers have supported firefighters at a number of major field fires and wildfires across the county.

Recent incidents have included fires at Croxley Green, Cuffley, Hemel Hempstead and Hunsdon.

Farmers have helped by providing water bowsers to boost water supplies, using machinery to plough fire breaks to stop flames spreading across fields and sharing their knowledge of the local landscape with emergency crews.

HFRS also has specialist 4x4 firefighting vehicles which allow crews to reach remote areas where conventional fire engines may struggle.

The partnership is not limited to wildfires, with the fire service able to provide specialist assistance through its large animal rescue unit when livestock are involved in emergencies.

Wayne Gibbons, Area Commander and Head of Operational Response for Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "As we've seen during recent periods of prolonged hot and dry weather, the risk of field fires and wildfires can increase significantly.

"Our partnership with the NFU has become an important part of our response to rural incidents across Hertfordshire.

"By working closely together, sharing knowledge and making the most of our combined resources, we're able to strengthen our response to wildfires and other emergencies in rural areas.

"Farmers have unique local knowledge, specialised equipment and immediate access to rural locations, which can make a real difference during an emergency. We are extremely grateful for their ongoing support and commitment."

Freya Samuel-Smith, NFU County Adviser for Hertfordshire, added: "Farmers have a strong connection to the land and are committed to protecting the countryside and the communities they serve.

"This partnership demonstrates the value of local knowledge and collaboration when responding to emergencies.

"By working alongside Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, farmers can provide practical support during incidents, helping to protect farmland, wildlife, businesses and local residents."

With warm and dry conditions increasing the potential for countryside fires, HFRS is also urging members of the public to take precautions.

People are being asked not to discard cigarettes or matches, to take glass bottles and other litter home and to avoid lighting campfires or bonfires in the countryside.

Disposable barbecues should not be used in parks, woodland, rural areas or open countryside, while anyone who spots a fire should call 999 immediately and provide as accurate a location as possible.