Warning from fire service after large wildfire at Cannock Chase

They say the hot and dry conditions mean the risks of outdoor fires are significantly higher. They spread quicker, light easier, and can cause widespread damage and harm.

Yesterday (Wednesday) officers from Staffordshire Fire and Rescue were called to land off Penkridge Bank just before 4pm following reports of a large fire.

Eight appliances and two water carriers attended the scene and found a fire measuring approximately 100 by 100 metres.

Crews used beaters and main jets to tackle the fire and thankfully nobody was reported injured.

An investigation into the cause of the fire will take place in due course.

Station Manager Jordan Money, who attended the scene, said: “We are seeing increasing numbers of outdoor fires, especially in warmer weather.

“Since April this year we have been called to over 1,400 outdoor fires which were either deliberate or avoidable.

“We’re urging people to not have open fires whilst the weather is so warm because they can easily get out of control.

“I would also remind people to always take rubbish home, keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children and discard of cigarettes appropriately.

“But if you do need to report a fire, remember to use the What 3 Words app, which can pinpoint a location and help us reach the incident quickly.”

For more information on how to prevent grass fires, visit Grass fire prevention.