Firefighters across Devon and Somerset have been stretched thin as extreme heat and a prolonged dry spell have caused multiple fires throughout the region. The Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service responded to numerous incidents over the weekend, highlighting the increasing fire risk amid tinder-dry conditions.
The first call came just after midnight on Saturday, when crews from Greenbank and Plymstock were dispatched to a domestic fire on the first floor of a home in Plymstock, Plymouth. Upon arrival, firefighters found the building fully engulfed in flames. Eight breathing apparatus sets, three hose reel jets, and two safety jets were deployed to bring the blaze under control.
Later that morning, around 4 a.m., units from Torquay, Paignton, and Newton Abbot attended a significant fire at the now-closed Occombe Farm tourist attraction in Devon. The response involved four engines, an aerial ladder platform, and a water bowser. Despite their efforts to protect adjacent buildings and surrounding grassland, the cookery school building was completely destroyed by the fire.
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At approximately 8:30 a.m., eight fire stations from Devon and Somerset were mobilized to tackle a blaze at an industrial estate scrap yard on Clovelley Road, Bideford. Crews from Barnstaple, Ilfracombe, Appledore, Bideford, Hartland, South Molton, Torrington, and Danes Castle worked together, while the road was closed in both directions for safety. Due to the nature of the fire, an environmental protection unit was also called in to support efforts.
By late morning, crews from Barnstaple, Chulmleigh, Combe Martin, and Woolacombe were called to a fire at a derelict building in Ilfracombe, further testing the fire service’s resources.
These fires are part of a growing trend of grass and crop fires across rural Devon and Somerset, prompting a stern warning from fire officials. A recent grass fire near Taunton involved a standing crop blaze covering 13 acres with a 100-meter fire front. Firefighters deployed multiple pumping appliances, a 4x4 ranger, and a water carrier to contain the situation.
One particularly concerning fire started on Friday around 5 p.m. in Littlehempston, near Totnes. Firefighters believe the cause was a spark from a barbecue igniting the extremely dry grass. Crews from Paignton, Newton Abbot, and later Torquay responded rapidly to prevent further spread.
The fire service has issued urgent advice for residents and visitors, emphasizing heightened caution when using barbecues and disposable grill packs during this severe dry spell. “While we encourage everyone to enjoy the warm weather and alfresco dining, it only takes a single spark to cause devastating fires in these conditions,” a spokesperson said.
As temperatures remain high and dry conditions continue, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue urge the public to act responsibly to prevent further outbreaks and keep the community safe.