Why there was smoke or flames on Saddleworth Moor

Fire crews have carried out controlled burning on Saddleworth Moor this afternoon (Friday).

The process involves deliberately starting fires under controlled conditions to clear out low-lying flammable material and maintain the health of the moorland.

GMFRS tweeted the following:

⚠️ We are aware of controlled burning taking place on moorland in the Tameside/Saddleworth areas.

Please do not be alarmed and please do not call 999 unless it is an emergency. pic.twitter.com/rYWbljwDTI

— Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service (@manchesterfire) February 7, 2020

They then confirmed around two hours later that it has now been completed. 

✅ The controlled burning in the Tameside/Saddleworth area has now ended.

🚒 Thanks to everyone who got in touch, and please remember to call 999 if you suspect an emergency.

— Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service (@manchesterfire) February 7, 2020

They urged people not be alarmed if they see smoke or flames on land in Tameside and Saddleworth and advised not to call 999 unless there is a genuine emergency.

Main image:

Firefighters tackling a blaze on Saddleworth Moor in July 2018 (Image by Nigel Wood)