Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) and Forestry England are urging the public not to use barbecues, campfires, or any form of outdoor cooking equipment after a major heathland fire broke out in the New Forest. The ongoing blaze has prompted urgent calls for public caution across the New Forest, with Forestry England reporting multiple smaller wildfires believed to have been caused by abandoned campfires. A spokesman for Forestry England said: "At a time of high wildfire alert these actions are extremely dangerous and we would like to remind everyone visiting the New Forest that BBQs, campfires and the use of any outdoor cooking equipment are banned across the whole area." The ban now extends to all 10 Forestry England campsites in the region, with on-site campers receiving updated safety guidance. A heavy volume pump has been deployed at Hightown Lake in Ringwood to ensure firefighters have enough water supply for the A31 incident, with hoses laid across pavements and driveways.