Derbyshire fire crews issue warning after wildfire close to Woodhead Reservoir

Derbyshire Fire & Rescue Service have issued a warning after crews spent much of yesterday tackling a wildfire close to the Woodhead Reservoir.

Firefighters from Glossop, New Mills, Chapel-en-le-Frith and Whaley Bridge attended a wildfire near Woodhead Reservoir in Longdendale Valley at around 17:30.

Derby Mountain Rescue and local gamekeepers also helped tackle the flames, with fire crews using water backpacks, beaters, an Argocat vehicle, and drones to bring the blaze under control..

The blaze covered 150 metres by 120 metres. Fire crews left the scene at around 7am this morning.

Station Manager and Joint Wildfire Lead for Derbyshire Fire and Rescue, Mark King said:

"With the recent dry and warm weather, combined with strong winds, the risk of wildfires is increasing."

Fires can start easily and spread quickly in these conditions, especially on moorland. We’re asking people to be extra careful and follow wildfire safety advice to help reduce the risk."

To prevent fires, people are being urged to:

Properly extinguish and dispose of cigarettes, not discard them from car windows.

Avoid leaving glass bottles behind as they can magnify sunlight and start fires.

Refrain from using portable BBQs or gas stoves in countryside areas, particularly moorlands where they are often banned.

Take rubbish home or dispose of it responsibly.

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