Firefighters have been praised for saving dozens of homes in Newcastle after a huge grassland fire threatened to spread into a village.
More than 30 firefighters from Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service tackled a large grass fire in Walbottle on Thursday, August 13. Crews arrived at the scene just minutes after the control room staff received a call at around 3pm alerting them to the fire that was growing and spreading rapidly.
In hot and arduous conditions, firefighters battled to prevent the flames from spreading to nearby houses as police evacuated a small number of residents as a precaution. Thankfully, crews were able to stop the fire from reaching the homes in the nick of time – with garden fences, decking and some out-buildings becoming damaged in the fire.
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Firefighters remain at the fire in Walbottle on Friday morning and say the cause of the fire is unlikely to ever be established.
Area Manager Richie Rickaby said: “This has been a very challenging week with wildfires taking place across Tyne and Wear that have required a significant response, placing immense pressure on our resources. Last night we had significant fires in Greenside and in Walbottle that required significant responses, with many smaller fires taking place elsewhere
“The fire in Walbottle was a particularly concerning incident as the wind was blowing the flames towards nearby residential properties. Residents had to be evacuated from their homes as a precaution and there were concerns that their properties would be engulfed by the fire.
“However, thanks to the incredible work of Fire Control, our firefighters and our emergency service partners, we were able to get the flames under control in the nick of time and support those residents at risk. I want to personally thank everyone who was involved, and thank the community for their co-operation with emergency services.
“It must have been an incredibly scary time and we are glad that they have been able to safely return to their homes."
With the heat wave set to continue into the weekend, the fire service has reiterated its call to the public to reduce the risk of fire by avoiding having barbecues in vulnerable areas and disposing of cigarettes carefully.
“The hot weather will continue and we are appealing for the continued support of the public in the coming days," Area Manager Rickaby said.
“Please remain vigilant, avoid lighting fire or having barbecues in vulnerable areas, and please dispose of cigarettes carefully. By working together, we can reduce incidents, ensure our firefighters and fire control staff are available and ultimately save lives.”
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