South Wales fire crews deployed to help tackle wildfire in Derbyshire
The wildfire tactical team are at the scene of a major incident at Tintwistle
South Wales Fire and Rescue Service has deployed its specialist wildfire tactical team to assist in tackling a major wildfire in Derbyshire.
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The incident has impacted 260 hectares of moorland and woodland, prompting Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service to declare it a major incident.
The SWFRS team is replacing the Northumberland Fire and Rescue Service burn team for a 48-hour period.
The specially trained group, consisting of two wildfire tactical officers and firefighters skilled in wildfire tactics, will work to prevent further spread by using specialist equipment, resources, and a Wildfire Response Unit.
Mark Havell, Head of Risk Reduction for SWFRS, expressed pride in the deployment, stating, “We are proud to be deploying a specialist wildfire response team and resources to support Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service as part of the UK’s National Resilience arrangements.
“This ongoing major incident has had a significant impact on local communities, and our thoughts remain with everyone affected. By working alongside colleagues from Derbyshire and across the UK fire and rescue sector, we are helping to bring the wildfire under control, protect communities and support recovery efforts.”
The deployment is planned to safeguard SWFRS appliance availability and operational readiness, with the service not currently facing significant wildfire threats in its own region.
Havell further commended the expertise of the SWFRS team, adding, “I would like to thank our highly skilled wildfire specialists for their commitment and professionalism.
"Their expertise will play an important role in supporting the operational response while ensuring South Wales Fire and Rescue Service remains fully prepared to respond to incidents within our own communities.”