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Gorse fires prompt public safety warnings

Alex BlakeIsle of Man
Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service A hedgerow of gorse lines the bottom half of the scene, with flames blazing across the horizon in the distance. Large clouds of smoke are going upwards into a dark sky and there are a number of firefighters tackling the flames.Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service
Fire crews attended a gorse fire near the Point of Ayre on Thursday

A number of fires across the Isle of Man have prompted firefighters to warn people to take extra care in the countryside during warm and dry weather.

Crews were called to two fires this week, including one near the Point of Ayre on Thursday evening and another close to Peel Golf Course on Tuesday afternoon.

Firefighters said dry conditions and strong winds allowed the fires to spread quickly, "particularly in coastal and rural areas".

The fire and rescue service said the incidents showed how quickly fires can spread in dry weather.

Shortly before 22:00 BST on Thursday, emergency teams from Ramsey found a large area of burning gorse and vegetation near the Point of Ayre.

Crews spent about two hours bringing it under control, with extra water supplies brought in from Douglas because of difficulties accessing water at the scene.

Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service A charred field with a small hill to the left with electricity lines visible over it. There are gorse bushes near the foot of the hill and a firefighter using a hose. A fire engine is parked in the field and there are rolling hills in the background.Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service
A controlled fire burned out of control near Peel Golf Course on Wednesday

The day before, at about 13:00 BST on Wednesday, firefighters were called to an area near Peel Golf Course after a controlled fire spread out of control.

Here crews faced difficult terrain, with flames spreading fast through grass and gorse.

The fire burned close to overhead electricity lines, which were temporarily switched off while teams brought it under control.

People have been urged not to throw cigarettes or matches on the ground, avoid lighting campfires or disposable barbecues near dry grass and gorse, and not to park vehicles on long grass because hot exhausts can start fires.

The service also advised anyone planning a controlled burn to check weather conditions carefully, keep the fire supervised at all times and inform emergency control staff before they begin.

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