FIRE chiefs have issued an early warning in the hope of preventing a summer of countryside blazes in Wirral.

They say arsonists are putting lives at risk and those responsible could face the courts.

The move came after a series of deliberately-set fires already at the Heswall Dales and nearby shrubland.

It is believed the incidents, which were in four areas and estimated to be around 30 square metres in total, were deliberate ignitions.

The grassy hillsides become a notorious tinderbox in summer months.

Now, as temperatures start to rise, Merseyside Fire Service has issued safety advice.

Group manager Paul Murphy, district manager for Wirral, said: “Grass fires and fires involving rubbish can spread quickly.

“Those who set grass fires put themselves, other people, as well as local wildlife at risk.

“Deliberately setting fires in a public place is arson and if caught, those responsible may face legal action.

“If firefighters are attending deliberate grass fires, those fire appliances are not available to attend other emergencies.

"People can also prevent accidental grass fires by not lighting barbecues or bonfires near grassland and not discarding lit cigarettes in those areas.”

Merseyside Fire & Rescue Service control room received five calls about the fire on Wednesday.

Watch manager Carl Cleaver, who attended a recent call-out with crews from Heswall, said: “There were dry trees, heather and grass to which the fire rapidly spread."

Crews used beaters and a hose to extinguish the blaze.