Fire service under ‘tremendous pressure’ as huge gorse fire stretches resources.

Firefighters in north Wales are urging people to stop and think about the consequences of grass fires following a fire in Dwygyfylchi over the weekend. 

Picture: castlevision

North Wales Fire and Rescue Service say valuable resources were tied up while they dealt with the gorse fire which threatened the safety of nearby properties.

People living in the surrounding area were advised to close windows and doors to avoid smoke entering their homes and businesses.

Crews were called to a large fire on the Allt Wen mountain in Dwygyfylchi, Penmaenmawr on Saturday evening 4 June at just before 11pm – firefighters remain at the scene monitoring the fire this morning and are likely to remain there for some time.

Picture: castlevision

It has not been possible to determine the cause of the fire as yet.

Stuart Millington, Senior Fire Safety Manager, said:

“We received numerous notifications in relation to the Dwygyfylchi fire and would like to thank people for acting in a safe and responsible manner.

“The recent dry weather has increased the risk of rural fires. During warmer periods such as this, grass, gorse and heather can become very dry and consequently fires can develop very quickly, particularly in raised winds, resulting in the potential to quickly spread and get out of control, with the need for us to attend to extinguish them.

“This fire places tremendous pressure on our resources, with firefighters tied up for a considerable length of time working to bring it under control.

“Quite often these types of fires also happen in areas where access is extremely difficult and water supply is limited.

Picture: castlevision

“I would urge visitors to the countryside to take extra care when they are out and about to reduce the risk of fire in this dry weather – it is more important then ever when it is dry to take extra care when discarding cigarettes, to avoid starting any fires in the open altogether, and to discard of barbeques safely.

“Landowners are reminded that the controlled burning period for upland areas came to an end on 31^st March and a licence is required to burn outside the permitted period.

“Remember – setting fires is a criminal offence and we are actively working alongside North Wales Police to combat deliberate incidents – those found to be responsible will be prosecuted.

“Anyone with information on such crimes is advised to anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.”

Thanks to castlevision.co.uk for the use of their dramatic images, more here on their Facebook page