Dorchester's Puddletown Woods set alight after BBQ 'left discarded'

A large area of Puddletown Woods in Dorchester has been destroyed after a fire over the weekend.

Several fire engines were called to the heath and gorse blaze on Sunday 26 April, which is believed to have been started by a discarded BBQ.

It took crews hours to finally get the fire under control, they say.

Three fire engines were called to the incident. Credit: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service
Be cautious when having open fires or using barbecues. Credit: Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service have issued a number of guidelines for the public following the incident.

They include:

  • Don’t have open fires or use barbecues in the countryside

  • Put out cigarettes and other smoking materials properly

  • Do not throw cigarette ends out of your vehicle. They could start a fire and destroy surrounding countryside.

  • If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately. Do not tackle a fire yourself, unless it can be put out with a bucket of water. Please call the fire service and leave the area as soon as possible.

  • Ensure that you know your location or a landmark so you can direct the fire service.