Fire services declare major incident over wildfires

Fire services in both Greater Manchester and Derbyshire have declared major incidents as services tackle wildfires on areas of moorland at Dovestone Reservoir, Oldham, and at Tintwhistle near Glossop.

Firefighters are continuing to work alongside partner agencies to contain the fire and prevent further spread. Due to weather conditions, smoke from the fire may be noticeable in parts of Greater Manchester and beyond, with Stockport and South Manchester among the areas worst affected according to live air quality data shared by Swiss technology firm, IQAir. Defra’s air pollution forecast also warns of localised air pollution due to the fires that may not be indicated by weather forecast maps.

Wildfire smoke contains very small particles and gases that can irritate the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. Most healthy people will experience only temporary symptoms, but smoke can have a greater impact on babies and young children, older people, those who are pregnant, and those with existing heart or lung conditions such as asthma, COPD or heart disease.

Stockport Council has shared the following recommendations:

If you can smell smoke or visibility is noticeably reduced, then we recommend that you:

• spend less time outdoors
• avoid strenuous outdoor exercise, such as running, intensive gardening or sports
• keep windows and doors closed while smoke levels are high
• stay indoors during the smokiest periods, if temperatures allow
• keep car windows closed and use the vehicle’s recirculating air setting if available

You should also check on family members, neighbours and friends who may be at greater risk, particularly if they live alone or have existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.

The fire near Dovestone Reservoir broke out on Saturday evening on an area of open moorland, and firefighters remain in attendance supported by local mountain rescue teams, specialist wildfire units, and United Utilities as part of a multi-agency response. In Derbyshire firefighters have been working to control a wildfire that began burning on moors above Glossop on 24th June, which has worsened due to strong winds and current heatwave.

In the current dry conditions, even a small spark can quickly develop into a significant fire, and GMFRS continues to urge people not to use disposable barbecues, light campfires or set off fireworks on or near moorland.

Nationally, 19 active wildfires covering over 10,000 sqm have been recorded across England and Wales. National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) Chair, Phil Garrigan, said:

“Wildfires can cause immense damage to landscapes, wildlife, agriculture and local communities, while also placing significant pressure on emergency services. A few simple actions can make a huge difference in helping to prevent fires before they start.

“Fire and rescue services are currently responding to multiple significant wildfires across the UK, with challenging conditions helping fires to spread quickly and over large areas.

“When vegetation is this dry, it only takes one spark to start a fire. What may begin as a small incident can escalate at speed, placing communities, firefighters and the environment at risk.

“We are strongly urging everyone to take extra care while enjoying the outdoors. Avoid using disposable barbecues in parks, moorland, countryside areas and other open spaces, never discard cigarettes on the ground, and make sure any litter is taken home.