A surge in fires has prompted safety warnings for visitors to green spaces cross the Dudley borough.
Councillor Damian Corfield has urged the public to exercise extra caution in parks, nature reserves, and open spaces following a recent spate of fires.
In recent weeks, West Midlands Fire Service has responded to multiple incidents in areas including Dudley Wood, Netherton Park, Saltwells’ Netherton Hill, Coombeswood, Cotwall End Valley, Barrow Hill, Wrens Nest, and Fens Pools.
Mr Corfield, Dudley Council’s cabinet member for neighbourhoods, said: "Our nature reserves and green spaces are some of the borough's most valuable assets, providing important habitats for wildlife and places for residents to enjoy and connect with nature.
"A single careless act can have devastating consequences, destroying habitats, putting wildlife at risk and causing damage that can take many years to recover from."
With warm and dry weather heightening the risk, the council has warned that even a small spark can ignite dry grass, heathland, or woodland.
Wildfires not only destroy ecosystems but also release stored carbon and can threaten nearby homes.
Visitors are advised not to use disposable barbecues or light open fires in or near nature reserves, ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and disposed of safely, and to take all litter home, particularly glass bottles and other items that could contribute to a fire.
The public is also urged to heed any posted warnings or temporary restrictions during periods of elevated fire risk.
Mr Corfield said: "Most wildfires are preventable, so we're asking everyone to take a few simple precautions when visiting our green spaces this summer.
By working together, we can help protect our special places for future generations."
Anyone who spots a wildfire should move to safety and call 999 immediately, providing as precise a location as possible to assist emergency responders.
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