Fire Destroys Chicken Coops, Sheds and Fencing in Rural Somerset

In the early hours of Sunday morning, August 30, firefighters were called to tackle a significant agricultural fire near Peasmarsh, just outside Ilminster, Somerset. The emergency call came in at 2am, initially reporting that people might be involved.

Responding promptly, crews from Chard deployed two fire appliances, joined by a pumping appliance from Ilminster and a Water Carrier from Yeovil, the latter dispatched due to the rural location and limited nearby water supply.

Upon arrival, emergency responders found a smallholding engulfed in flames, with several sheds, chicken coops, and fencing ablaze. A rapid assessment by the Incident Commander confirmed that all individuals were safe and accounted for. It is reported that chickens housed in an outbuilding were released safely before the fire took hold.

Firefighters swiftly worked to contain and extinguish the blaze, employing four breathing apparatus sets, two hose reel jets, a 51mm main attack jet, and thermal imaging cameras to detect any concealed hotspots.

The fire crews remained on the scene conducting thorough dampening operations to ensure the fire was fully extinguished, returning to their stations by 4:30am.

In response, Chard Fire Station has urged residents to provide precise location details when reporting fires in rural areas, recommending the use of apps such as What3Words. They also advise informing emergency services of any site hazards like solar panels, gas cylinders, or livestock to enhance response effectiveness and safety.