Firefighters battle fast-spreading blaze near Ilminster as dry conditions fuel flames
Report by Duncan Williams for Pulman's Weekly News
Fire crews from across Somerset were called to a fast-spreading blaze near Ilminster after a large area of trees, hedgerow and grassland caught fire during the hot, dry weather.
Firefighters from Chard, Martock, Yeovil and Taunton were mobilised to Winterhay Lane after reports of a significant fire in the open.
The blaze prompted a major emergency response, with firefighters from four stations working together to bring the fire under control before damping down the area to prevent it reigniting.
A spokesperson for Chard Fire Station said: “Earlier today, Chard’s appliance was mobilised alongside crews from Martock Fire Station, Yeovil Fire Station and Taunton Fire Station to reports of a large fire in the open in the Winterhay Lane area.
“On arrival, crews found a significant area of conifer trees, hedgerow, grassland and an electricity pylon well alight, which was spreading rapidly due to the dry conditions.
“Thanks to the hard work and swift action of all crews involved, the fire was successfully extinguished, and the area damped down to prevent any reignition.”
Firefighters tackled the blaze using three hose reel jets, a 51mm jet, six sets of breathing apparatus, beaters and thermal imaging cameras.
An additional water carrier from Bridgwater Fire Station was also sent to the scene to help maintain water supplies at what firefighters described as a challenging location.
Following the incident, the fire service urged people to take extra care during the current spell of warm, dry weather.
The spokesperson said: “Fires in the open can start easily and spread incredibly fast.
“Please remember to dispose of cigarettes responsibly, avoid using disposable BBQs in wild areas, and always ensure any bonfires are fully supervised and completely extinguished.”
The cause of the fire has not yet been disclosed.
( Photos courtesy of Chard Fire Station 📸 )