Fire crews were called to a blaze on a Welsh beach after a disposable barbecue is thought to have ignited scrub land. The incident occurred above Glen Beach near Saundersfoot Harbour on Sunday evening, July 26.
Fire details and response
Multiple crews from Mid and West Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) attended. The fire affected approximately 70 square metres of trees and bracken on the cliffside. Firefighters from Tenby Fire Station used one hose reel jet to bring the blaze under control and extinguish it.
The Hean Castle Estate, which owns land in the area, said a major incident was narrowly avoided due to the quick work of the fire service. The estate’s owners posted on social media that it is extremely irresponsible to light any sort of fire in the current dry conditions.
Firefighters had to revisit the scene on Monday morning after a flare-up, using an extended hose reel jet and a water shuttle system to extinguish it. The crew left at 9.58am.
Wider context
Over the past week, dozens of firefighters have battled major fires across Wales, including one in Harlech visible from space and another in Blaenavon where smoke could be smelled up to 30 miles away.
The recent heatwaves have left grasslands scorched. Although some light, showery rain is forecast, July is on record to be the driest month ever in Wales.
In a Facebook post, the Hean Castle Estate thanked the public who alerted the fire brigade and the firefighters for their prompt and professional response. The estate appealed to local vendors to restrict the sale of disposable barbecues until the fire risk reduces.
