Firefighters are currently tackling a blaze at Herrington Country Park in Sunderland after a fire broke out on a field. Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service (TWFRS) confirmed on Sunday afternoon that four appliances are at the scene, with two others on the way.
Public urged to stay away
The service is urging people to keep away from the area as crews work at the scene. People are also being advised to refrain from calling in about the fire, as the service is already aware.
Pictures show plumes of smoke billowing into the sky, with flames being seen on an area of grassland.
Wildfire warning
On Saturday, TWFRS advised people to take the recent UK Government wildfire alert seriously and help keep 999 lines free for emergencies. Call 999 only if a fire is spreading or threatens life or property. The service added that if you see someone having a BBQ or a bonfire, don't call 999 simply to report it.
This weekend, firefighters descended on woodland near Gurney Valley in Bishop Auckland following a blaze. Chronicle Live previously reported that the fire service assisted with over 1,000 calls in the last week, with a significant increase in firefighters responding to outdoor fire related incidents.
Chief Fire Officer praises crews
Chief Fire Officer Steve Helps praised the efforts of firefighters, control operators and support staff who have gone above and beyond to respond to a huge surge of incidents during this latest heatwave. The Chief has also thanked the public for their support reporting incidents so crews can protect lives and property.
Many of these incidents have been classified as wildfires due to their size and have seen crews battling to save homes in St Helen Auckland during extremely tough conditions.
