The Ministry of Defence (MOD) is reminding people to take care when visiting Strensall, where military training takes place year-round.
Recent incidents of people straying into restricted areas have forced exercises to stop, which the MOD says affects how personnel prepare for deployments.
Lt Colonel Mark Jenkins, the DIO’s Regional Commander for the North of England, said: “The military train 24/7 so they are ready to deploy on operations, and disrupting this critical training has a real impact on their preparations and their ability to do their jobs effectively.
“If we all work together to use these spaces with respect and consideration, the public will stay safe, and our Armed Forces will be able to carry out their important training exercises.”
Some areas of Strensall Common remain open, but access to the Danger Area is restricted during range use. Timings are displayed on local notice boards.
The warning is part of the Respect the Range campaign, which highlights risks such as blank ammunition, unexploded ordnance, loud noises and fast-moving vehicles.
This summer’s hot weather has also increased the risk of wildfires. A North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson commented: “To help prevent wildfires this summer, we’d ask the public not to light fires or use BBQs, and to dispose of cigarettes and litter responsibly. If you encounter a wildfir,e don’t attempt to put it out yourself – call 999 and ask for the fire and rescue service.”
Safety advice for visitors includes following signs and MOD instructions, keeping dogs under control, avoiding military debris, and never lighting fires or using BBQs.
More details are available at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/safe-access
