Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service are urging people to take extra care when visiting the countryside after a wildfire broke out at Dovestone Reservoir yesterday (Thursday 22nd).
Fire crews were alerted at around 9.45pm after reports of a fire in Bank Lane, in the Greenfield area of Oldham. Two fire engines and two wildfire support units from Mossley, Chadderton, Stalybridge and Bolton North were quick to attend the scene.
The fire involved both moorland and a woodland area and covered approximately 20,000 square metres of plantation.
Working alongside local partners, GMFRS has recently been reminding people of the importance of staying safe when visiting the countryside by sharing advice and tips on how to prevent wildfires from breaking out, and about the damage this kind of fire causes to the local area and communities as well as businesses and the environment.
Group Manager, Ian Redfern who was in charge of the incident at its height said,
“Specialist wildfire crews used new equipment and vehicles to bring the fire under control through the night and did a fantastic job in containing the flames from spreading further”.
The cause of the fire is still being investigated by specialist officers and residents are reminded to stay vigilant when in the countryside and always refrain from having barbecues or campfires.
For more information on how to stay safe in the countryside please visit https://www.manchesterfire.gov.uk/staying-safe/what-we-do/seasonal-safety/countryside-safety-advice/
Images and videos from Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service.
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