Firefighters say large heath fire in Dorset could affect local water supplies
Credit: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service.
More than 60 firefighters have been tackling a large heath fire in Dorset.
It broke out in Verwood yesterday afternoon (31 May) and people are being asked to avoid the area.
The fire is now out but officers are remaining at the location.
On social media, Dorset & Wiltshire Fire & Rescue Service said: "We are still tackling a large heath fire off St Stephen’s Lane, Verwood with crews in attendance from across the Service area.
"We expect to remain on scene for some hours yet, so please avoid the area.
"Some local homes may experience a loss of water supply after a mains collapse; this has been reported and will hopefully be fixed soon.
Please keep doors/windows closed if you are being affected by the smoke."
Firefighters say the cause is not yet known but the continued warm, dry weather means the risk of wildfire remains high.
Fire safety top tips include:
Don’t have barbecues or campfires on the heath or in open spaces; the risk of a fire starting is too great.
Extinguish cigarettes properly, don’t throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows – take your litter home.
If you see a fire in the countryside, call 999 and report it immediately to the Fire & Rescue Service. Please provide as much detail as possible about location and access, but also make sure you are in a safe place.
More information on staying safe and enjoying outside areas whilst avoiding starting a wildfire can be found at www.dwfire.org.uk/heath-fires- and-countryside-safety.
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