TWO weeks after a wildfire in the New Forest closed part of the A31, firefighters have stepped down.
A major incident was declared earlier this month, with crews from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service (HIWFRS), supported by colleagues from Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service (DWFRS), working through the night to get the “challenging” rural fire, which began as a vehicle fire on August 9, under control.
“The fire spread from the vehicle to the central reservation before progressing into nearby heathland,” a spokesperson said at the time.
The A31 in Hampshire was closed in both directions – the westbound carriageway between the M27 J2 (Ower) and the A338 (Ringwood), and the eastbound carriageway between the A338 and M27 J1 (Cadnam).
HIWFRS announced on Sunday (August 23) that the major road had reopened and they were “in a position to leave the scene.”
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A pair of off-road vehicles remained until the evening, supporting Forestry England with monitoring of the area, but have since returned to the station, it has been confirmed.
A spokesperson for HIWFRS said: “Our firefighters, along with support teams from across the organisation, have worked tirelessly for the past fortnight, helped by our partner agencies and colleagues from other fire services, including national specialists.
“Thank you again to the local residents for their patience and understanding with the disruption to their area, and we recognise the many kind offers of support received from members of the community.
“We must also thank the Rapid Relief Team who helped fuel our firefighters through the hot and tiresome conditions they were battling the fire in, by providing food and drink.”
Since the reopening of the A31, the fire service has received a number of calls reporting what appears to be smoke. However, this is believed to be caused by dust and debris being picked up by the wind.
HIWFRS also urged people to do what they can to prevent further wildfires from destroying open spaces. They said: “Although we’ve had a bit of much-needed rain in some areas, it is important we all continue to do our bit to help prevent damaging wildfires destroying our beloved countryside.
“With a temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues in place, we ask that you pack a picnic, avoid lighting campfires or bonfires, fully extinguish smoking materials and take your litter home with you.”
If you come across an outdoor fire, advice is to get to safety, dial 999 and provide a What3Words pinpoint so firefighters can quickly locate and access the fire to prevent it from escalating.
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