The fire at Manchester Road near Slaithwaite currently covers an estimated 2 km square of land. People are being advised to stay away from the area, and not to walk on the part of the Pennine Way which is close to the fire.
Dozens of calls were made to West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service (WYFRS) at around 1.30 pm and three fire engines were in attendance with four wildfire units. The specialist wildfire Polaris vehicle has also been deployed to help tackle the blaze and prevent it from spreading.
Special scientific interest
This is hard work for the firefighters, but we are working as a team to extinguish the flames"
At the scene is Assistant District Commander - Adam Garvey who said the fire currently stretches up and over a hill on the moorland, which is a site of special scientific interest.
“We are using blowers and beaters in a bid to stop the fire from spreading, as currently it stretches over a hill for around 2km,” said Adam Garvey, adding “This is hard work for the firefighters, but we are working as a team to extinguish the flames. It is frustrating to have our crews called again to Marsden Moor as they were here less than two weeks ago with fires that are now being investigated as arson by police.”
Advice to prevent wildfires
Recently WYFRS launched its annual #BeMoorAware campaign, which aims to prevent wildfires and reduce the impact on communities, businesses, and the environment.
Advice on helping to prevent wildfires includes:
- Clear up and take the rubbish home after picnics.
- Observe all signs and notices–they are there for a reason.
- Follow the National Trust Countryside Code.
- Don’t leave glass bottles. Not only can they hurt people and animals, but they can magnify the sun’s rays and start a fire.
- Never throw lighted cigarette ends onto the ground, or out of the window of vehicles. Always ensure that they are completely extinguished and disposed of responsibly.
- Never be tempted to light a fire in the countryside.
- If they see a fire, or someone using a BBQ on the moorland, call 999 and ask for Fire Service.
