Firefighters are tackling a large fire in the open which has spread through woodland and into an adjoining field on the outskirts of Calbourne this afternoon (Sunday).
At least 3 appliances and a water carrier are on scene between Pound Lane and Elm Lane, which sit on the outskirts of Calbourne and Shalfleet off the main Newport-Yarmouth road.
Crews appear to have the situation under control but a large area has already been damaged by the blaze – as seen from Island Echo’s eye in the sky.
Water is being sprayed to dampen down the area, with beaters also being utilised as the fire works it’s way along the hedgerow.
It’s unclear at this stage what caused the fire.
This afternoon’s incident comes at a time when the wildfire risk on the Isle of Wight is considered to be extremely high.
UPDATE – It has been confirmed that the fire began in a hay store – a disused horse box – and quickly spread, resulting in crews from Ryde, Shanklin, East Cowes and Freshwater being drafted in.
A digger – belonging to the owner of the lane – was used to quickly and efficiently turn over the hay for damping down.
The stop message was relayed at 19:52.
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.
Wait until the wonderful youth have their Summer break and are ‘bored’ after a day or two of staring at a screen whilst smoking dope.
Best hope it rains for 6 weeks
Its started….the sun brings the idiots out.
Ignore the authorities about reporting. They care very little for the Environment or our superb firefighters. Some of them even tell the Police not to investigate suspicious fires which fire brigade officials say are textbook arson.
There will be eco warriors out setting fires to prove global warming like they are doing in Australua and Calufornia.