A log campfire sparked a fire at Pan Mill Meadows in Newport yesterday (Saturday), leaving an area scorched despite the swift actions of firefighters.
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS) were called to reports of smoke coming from a wooded area off St George’s Way Newport at around 16:15.
On arrival firefighters discovered a log campfire which they swiftly extinguished using a jet.
Despite the quick stop, the fire has caused significant charring damage to an area of Pan Mill Meadows.
Given the current weather, HIWFRS has issued the following safety advice.
“With dry and warm weather continuing the risk of wildfires remains high and we’re urging everyone to take extra care when enjoying the outdoors:
- Never light barbecues, campfires or fire pits in the countryside
- Dispose of cigarettes and smoking materials safely
- Take litter home with you – glass bottles can magnify sunlight and start fires
- Call 999 immediately if you spot a fire
“In the current conditions fires can escalate rapidly, destroying wildlife and natural habitats, as well as tying up our firefighters and fire engines for many hours.”
Near pan estate – what a surprise
Hopefully the dickheads who lit it will be charged for the fire brigade call out.
What is wrong with people?
We’re in a drought, everything is tinder dry, and our fire services are already stretched.
Common sense – please.
The IOW is full of morons…
More wankers on the island should be prosecuted..but of course wont …
How can these dim idiots be walking around and think what a great idea it would be to light a campfire in a Heatwave!! They’re obviously as thick as two short planks!
Stupid is as stupid does…
What idiot would light a log fire in such conditions.
When a person has only one brain cell. What else can you expect.
How irresponsible can you get, France & Spain are burning out of control at the moment, such idiots around.
Enjoy nature and the countryside with all the wildlife, but follow the advice given by Hampshire and Isle of Wight fire and rescue, as all areas of the Island are tinder dry, and no rain forecast for the foreseeable future. Use common sense, but it seems some people are just plain thick!
Turn the TV on and what you see is wildfires burning everywhere, and we really don’t want a fire of that extreme here on our island as the fire brigade are already near breaking point.