FIREFIGHTERS have issued a plea to avoid “devastation” after battling three field fires in one weekend.
Despite warnings about the increased risk of fires during a prolonged period of hot, dry weather, Upton upon Severn firefighters said they had a busy weekend.
On Friday afternoon (July 31), they were called to a hedgerow fire on Welland Road between Malvern and Upton. Footage from the scene showed flames spreading quickly and smoke blowing into the air.
While the hedge was left charred, the fire was put out before it could spread into nearby fields.
“Friday, we attended a fire at the side of the road which, fortunately, was stopped before it spread into the nearby fields,” a spokesperson for Upton upon Severn Fire Station said.
“It could easily have been a very different outcome.”
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Fires in Ripple and Harvington
Crews were then called to Ripple on Saturday (August 1), where they used two hose reel jets, beaters and a drag fork to put out a fire.
Just minutes after returning to the station in Upton, they were called out to Harvington near Evesham as a relief crew.
A large field fire had broken out in the area, with residents having to be evacuated and others told to keep doors and windows shut.
“We returned to station and within 10 minutes we were then mobilised as a relief crew to Harvington near Evesham to a large field fire that had affected not only the field but also hedgerows gardens and sheds, where people had to be evacuated,” Upton firefighters said.
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Plea during hot, dry weather
FIRE: Firefighters in Upton said they had a busy weekend, attending field fires in Upton, Ripple and Harvington (Image: Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service)
While the causes have not yet been confirmed, firefighters have reminded people that “one careless moment”, and small pieces of rubbish, can be all it takes to start a fire during the dry weather.
“Please don’t throw cigarette ends, matches or any rubbish from your vehicle,” a spokesperson said.
CHARRED: A field in Harvington was charred by a large fire (Image: NQ)
“A discarded cigarette or even a piece of glass can be enough to ignite dry grass and crops, putting homes, wildlife and livelihoods at risk.
“A few seconds of care can prevent hours of devastation.
“If you spot a fire, move to a safe place and call 999 immediately. Stay safe and help us keep our countryside protected.”
