Fire service urges care in the countryside

Firefighters are reminding people to take care in the countryside after tackling a grass fire in Patrick at the weekend. 

On Saturday, an unattended campfire began a blaze which crews from Peel were called to contain. 

The Isle of Man Fire and Rescue Service says its crews spent a significant amount of time getting to the fire because of its isolated location. 

The organisation’s now repeating pleas for people to be careful in the countryside.

The Fire and Rescue Service says barbecues and camp fires pose significant risks – especially when combined with poor supervision and planning.

Firefighters say fires should be lit downwind of camps, never left unattended and people should have buckets of water or sand nearby to deal with any emergencies.

If a fire starts, call the fire and rescue service and give your exact location – including a map reference or landmark such as a farm or pub where necessary.

But the service also says people should remember grass and forest fires spread rapidly, and people should be prepared.