Firefighters tackling a widespread moorland blaze near Dovestone Reservoir were forced to put out a 'small fire linked to camping' over the weekend, Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) has revealed. The incident underscores ongoing risks as crews continue to battle the complex fire that began last Saturday.
Ongoing Firefighting Efforts
The fire near Dovestone Reservoir in Greenfield, Oldham, remains 'a complex and prolonged incident' as of Monday, according to GMFRS. A nearby area of moorland at Swineshaw has also been alight. Specialist wildfire teams, dedicated vehicles, firebreaks, and aerial support are being used due to the remote and difficult-to-access terrain.
GMFRS stated: 'This remains a complex and prolonged incident. Much of the fireground is remote and difficult to access, requiring specialist wildfire teams, dedicated vehicles, firebreaks and aerial support where conditions allow.' Crews are working in challenging conditions to protect communities and the natural environment.
Campfire Incident and Public Warning
Over the weekend, firefighters attended a small fire linked to camping activity on the moors. This follows reports from Saturday that people were seen lighting barbecues on the moorland near the affected area. With hot, dry conditions continuing, GMFRS is urging the public not to light campfires, use disposable BBQs, or bring any naked flames onto the moorland.
'We are also reminding people to help reduce the risk of further incidents,' the service said. 'Over the weekend, firefighters attended a small fire linked to camping activity on the moors. With hot, dry conditions continuing, people are asked not to light campfires, use disposable BBQs or bring any naked flames onto the moorland.'
Public Cooperation and Safety
GMFRS thanked local communities for their patience and cooperation, urging the public to avoid affected areas and not bring donations directly to the scene. 'Crews and partner agencies have appropriate welfare arrangements and supplies in place, and keeping access routes clear remains essential to ongoing operations,' they added.
Smoke may remain visible and travel significant distances depending on wind strength and direction. Residents affected by smoke should follow public health advice and take appropriate precautions.
Arrests and Charges
Greater Manchester Police launched an investigation after the Dovestone fire took hold. A 19-year-old woman and a man in his 20s were arrested on suspicion of arson and have been released on bail. Shania Care-Slede, 20, of Market Street, Hyde, has been charged with arson in connection with the fire and appeared in court on Tuesday.
