Firefighters called to 15 'fires in the open' across Devon yesterday
It's prompted a warning from Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
Last updated 25th Apr 2021
Firefighters were called to 15 fires in the open across Devon yesterday alone.
Devon & Somerset Fire and Rescue crews had an incredibly busy day yesterday (24th April) with lots of call outs, especially to a number of blazes in the open.
It's prompted a warning from our crews which say most fires like this are avoidable and can be caused by a bonfire getting out of control, BBQs or a cigarette.
DSFRS say:
"This weekend the fire severity index is high, and there are strong winds to fan the flames.
Please don't have unnecessary fires."
Bovey Tracey
One of the fires crews were called to yesterday involved 500 square meters of woodland just off the A382 in Bovey Tracey.
Crews from Bovey Tracey, Newton Abbot, Ashburton, Torquay, Water Bowsers from Torquay and Danes Castle and the Incident Command Unit from Totnes were all called.
They used five 45mm jets, five hose reel jets, one thermal image camera, one scotty pack, and compressed air foam to put the blaze out. Hydrants were also used to supplement the supply of water. The origin of the fire is thought to be accidental.
Other incidents
Fire crews were also called to decking on fire on a roof terrace at a domestic property last night in Plymouth.
It happened at around 8:58pm on Nelson Street.
The cause of the fire was accidental and it was extinguished.
Also in Plymouth - crews attended a fire in a flat on the sixth floor of a high rise building on James Street.
One person was evacuated by crews, the blaze was put out by five fire engines by 3pm yesterday.
Two fire crews from Teignmouth and Torquay were called at 8pm to a holiday park in Shaldon.
The blaze in a commercial kitchen was extinguished and minor damage was caused.