Over the last few weeks fire crews from Lancashire and Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Services, supported by multi-agency services from around the country, have been tackling moorland fires on a huge scale. In Lancashire these have been centred around Winter Hill near to the border with Greater Manchester but grass fires have broken out in different places too, including in the general Blackpool area, Lytham Green and Fylde. The size and complicated nature of fighting such fires has meant that many fire fighters and fire engines have been at the locations every day, 24/7, working under extremely challenging conditions which are hot, physically exhausting and unpredictable due to the weather. They are doing this to help keep the people of Lancashire safer and protect the environment  including the landscape,  its wildlife and water supply. In addition, whilst the firefighters are on the hills and moors it means it is more difficult to provide cover for other emergencies, such as house fires and serious road accidents.

 

Moorland fires can occur for a number of reasons however most are caused by humans being careless or starting them deliberately.

Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service are asking everyone to help in the following ways:

  • Please don’t increase the chance of a fire staring accidentally – keep away from vulnerable areas whilst the weather is dry if you can but in particular avoid using disposable barbecues and take all litter home – the sun shining through glass bottles can begin fires.
  • Please don’t get in the way of emergency service workers doing their job by being in the areas affected if you don’t need to be there. It blocks the roads and flying drones over the area can hamper and compromise public safety.
  • If you become aware of anyone starting the fires deliberately please call 999 and report them. It doesn’t matter who they are, they are putting the whole community at risk.

 

The cause of the fires at the moment are being investigated and should anyone be suspected of starting them deliberately they will be liable for prosecution which can lead to severe punishment.

You can also help us by watching and sharing our short animated film “Look after Peat, look after Lancashire on hot days” which is all about the impact of moorland fires and how they can be avoided.

 

For further information and support please contact your local community safety team through your local fire station.

https://www.lancsfirerescue.org.uk/about-us/your-local-station/

 

Many thanks for all your help in making Lancashire safer.