Firefighters are battling to stop a large garden fire from spreading in amongst woodland in central Ventnor tonight (Tuesday).
Several appliances from Ventnor, Ryde and Shanklin are on scene off Spring Hill, where a blaze has broken out in enclosed woodland behind a number of residential houses.
Around 20 firefighters are working to extinguish an area around 20x20m in size, which has consumed decking and spread to a large tree and surrounding undergrowth.
Main jets and a number of hose reel jets are being utilised from above and below.
It was just gone 20:00 that Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service was alerted to the developing incident.
UPDATE @ 21:09 – The blaze has been brought under control, with damping down of the charred woodland now taking place.
The total affected area now stands at around 50x20m.
Another appliance, this time from Cowes, has joined the ongoing efforts taking the incident to 4 pumps and a 4×4 Light Pump.
3 main jets and 2 breathing apparatus are still being utilised at this time.
A cause has yet to be ascertained.
Spring Hill remains closed in both directions with all traffic, including Southern Vectis buses, on diversion.
If you see a fire in the countryside, contact the fire service immediately on 999. Do not attempt to tackle fires that cannot be put out with a bucket of water.
Remember, do not discard cigarettes or other smoking materials in the countryside. It is also important to clear away bottles, glasses and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire.
Always take extra care if using a barbecue and only light fires or BBQs in designated areas. Never leave a campfire or BBQ unattended and extinguish them properly after you have finished using them.
This is just behind mine.
There’s a valid contribution to this post…
And?
Behind your what ? Pet elephant enclosure
East Cowes is full of paedophiles. Ask the adult women who have never reported child rape. Yet.
Those responsible should make a public apology for the mayhem, it was a truly terrifying experience being behind the fire also be billed by the fire service for their irresponsible behaviour and banned from anymore fires at the property the fires are a constant nuisance.