A toad was rescued from burning embers by a firefighter after crews were called to a series of outdoor fires in the Ashfield area.
Firefighters from Ashfield Fire Station said they had attended several woodland, forest, grass and undergrowth fires over recent days.
The service said such incidents are often labour-intensive and, in many cases, avoidable. They can also put firefighters at risk, tie up emergency resources and cause serious damage to natural habitats.
A photograph shared by the station shows a toad rescued by one of its firefighters after it was found among burning embers. It was safely moved to an area away from the fire.
The fire service warned that outdoor fires can quickly turn green spaces into blackened landscapes and have a devastating impact on wildlife, including insects, birds and small animals that are unable to escape the flames.
Residents are being urged not to discard cigarettes or matches on the ground, to take litter home, especially glass bottles, and to ensure disposable barbecues or campfires are never left unattended and are fully extinguished.
Anyone who sees a fire should call 999 immediately.
