Crews battle large wildfire over Easter weekend
West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service says it received reports of a wildfire off Denne Road, Horsham, on Saturday at about 17:15 BST
- Published
Emergency services have urged the public to heed wildfire prevention advice during the Easter holidays following a blaze which damaged four hectares (10 acres) of land.
West Sussex Fire & Service Service said it received multiple calls shortly after 17:15 BST on Saturday.
Three fire engines, a water carrier and two off-road vehicles were sent to the scene off Denne Road in Horsham.
A spokesperson for the fire service said firefighters worked "extremely hard" to stop the blaze spreading to two nearby properties, with crews remaining on the scene on Sunday to ensure there were no further signs of fire.
The fire service says crews remain at the scene on Sunday to ensure there are no more signs of fire
People are being urged to avoid the area while the incident is ongoing.
"Firefighters worked into Saturday evening using jets and beaters, with relief crews brought in throughout the night to dampen down the area and extinguish remaining signs of fire," a fire service spokesperson said.
"The crews worked to extinguish about 10 deep-seated hotspots which were found using a thermal imaging camera in the peat under the surface."
The fire service is urging residents to take extra care after the dry spring weather
The fire service says after a particularly dry period this spring, wildfires can start very easily.
The fire service advises residents to:
Not drop cigarettes or burning materials on dry ground
Keep children away from lighters and matches
Only use designated barbecue areas
Dispose of glass bottles and litter properly to minimise the risk of a fire taking hold.