Firefighters have tackled a small tree stump fire at Appley Park in Ryde this evening (Friday).
An appliance from the town’s nearby fire station was mobilised to the open park at 20:45 after it was reported to fire control that a tree stump was alight.
The single crew have used a hose reel and COBRA lance to fully extinguish the fire, which was embedded deep within the large stump.
It is thought youths are to blame.
In England, on average 27,000 fires are started on grass, heathland and moorland every year. Fires in the countryside can get out of hand very quickly, cause extensive damage and put lives at risk. They can also last for several days, using up valuable Fire Service resources which could be needed elsewhere.
Countryside Fire Safety:
• Avoid open fires in the countryside. Always have them in safe, designated areas
• Never throw cigarette ends out of car windows – they could start a fire and ruin surrounding countryside.
• Don’t leave bottles or glass in woodlands. Sunlight shining through glass can start a fire. Take them home or put them in a waste or recycling bin
• If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately
• Don’t attempt to tackle fires that can’t be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as soon as possible
• When having a BBQ, keep a bucket of water, sand or a garden hose nearby for emergencies
