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The second heatwave of the summer kept emergency services in Hyndburn busy this week – with fears over fires and open water swimming.
Firefighters made regular appearances in the space of four days to three grass fires in Huncoat. Crews were pictured at the Bolton Avenue Playing Fields site, as a combination of sizzling temperatures and tinder-dry grassland produced several small wildfires.
A Lancashire Fire & Rescue service spokesperson said: “We have attended three grass fires on the playing fields; one on the 13 August and two on 14 August.
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“Due to the small nature of fires and no one present when the firefighters arrived at the scene, the cause of these fires are unknown. The majority of these small fires are started deliberately – whether that is through someone using a lighter or dropping a cigarette, for example.
“The warm, dry weather doesn’t usually start the fires, but the conditions can help the fires develop and spread.”
Coun Danny Cassidy said: “People need to be aware that because we have had this inclement weather it’s not the norm. People should be aware of how easy a fire can start; something as simple as a glass bottle can cause that. I don’t know the cause of the fires.”
Separately, Rishton councillor Kate Walsh said she was “horrified” to see the remains of a fire in Cutwood Park during last weekend’s heatwave.
She said: “Please, please, please don’t do this. This is how wildfires start. Imagine Cutwood without the wood. I know everyone is out I’m enjoying the hot weather but don’t light fires and BBQs in our green spaces!”
Hyndburn Neighbourhood Police officers said they would be targeting open water sites where youths are putting themselves in danger in the extreme weather trying to cool off.
Officers attended Kemp Delph quarry in Oswaldtwistle on Saturday along with the fire service, where 25-30 youths were moved away. The Stanhill beauty spot has long been a favourite for youngsters to attempt the dangerous practice of ‘tombstoning’ – diving off rocks.
A spokesperson said: “Please can we ask that parents are aware of their children/s whereabouts and discuss the dangers of open water. All sites will be monitored and visited over the course of the weekend and we would very much appreciate your support with not allowing children to play in such areas.”
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