Nottingham Fire crews are still dealing with a woodland blaze at Strawberry Hill Heath in Rainworth after firefighters were called there on Monday afternoon. Richard Booth said the Nottingham fire was still burning below the surface across 10,000 sq m on Tuesday.
The service said the fire remained at the scene into the night and that crews returned on Tuesday. It warned people to avoid the area while firefighters deal with the blaze.
Richard Booth on Tuesday
Booth described a fire spread across 10,000 sq m, which is about 108,000 sq ft. Although it may only appear to be smoke, the fire service said it is still burning underground.
That underground spread is why the response is continuing with specialist equipment from the wildfire units. The service said these types of fires are difficult to extinguish because they can burn deep underground.
Strawberry Hill Heath in Rainworth
Firefighters were first called to Strawberry Hill Heath in Rainworth on Monday afternoon, then stayed at the scene into the night before returning on Tuesday. The area is being kept clear while crews work through ground that can keep burning after the surface looks subdued.
The service also linked the fire response to very hot weather in what was forecast to be the third heatwave this year. It advised people to be careful with BBQs, cigarettes, glass bottles and rubbish during the hot weather.
NFRS wildfire units
“Firefighters are using specialist equipment from our wildfire units. Please avoid the area while our firefighters deal with this fire.”
“These type of fires are difficult to extinguish as they can burn deep underground.”
“Please be careful this time is year with BBQs, cigarettes, glass bottles. Take your rubbish home with you.” The immediate priority is staying away from Strawberry Hill Heath until crews finish dealing with the underground fire.
