Multiple fire crews from several Island towns have been battling a hedgerow fire near Totland this afternoon (Tuesday).
Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue crews from Freshwater, Newport, and Ventnor have been in attendance at the rural property near Middleton.
Several appliances including a water carrier from Ventnor rushed to the scene at 13:55 where the fire, which is believed to have started in a hedgerow, quickly spread to and ignited a parked car.
Crews wearing breathing apparatus are tackling the blaze and are working to get the fire under control and extinguish the blaze. They remain on scene at the current time to dampen down the area.
UPDATE @ 15:18 – The incident has now been brought under control by firefighters, and the stop message was received by control at 15:15.
Fire control said the fire had involved 15 metres of hedgerow.
Crews used breathing apparatus, 1 main jet and 1 hose reel to extinguish the blaze.
Fire crews are expected to make up and stand down from the incident shortly.
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.
