SEVERAL fire engines from Abercrave, Brecon, Llandrindod Wells and Ammanford crews were called to an incident at Coelbren, Abercrave last week.
The call was made to emergency services at 9.47am on Friday, June 16.
Approximately 40 hectares of forestry and scrub land was destroyed by fire, crews extinguished the fire by utilising a helicopter drone, thermal imaging camera, all-terrain vehicle and rapid response vehicle. The landowner was advised to monitor the area over the weekend. Crews found remnants of a barbeque at the scene which is believed to have caused this fire.
Crews left the scene at 7.04pm.
This incident followed another forestry fire in Abercrave on Thursday, June 15th. The Abercrave, Seven Sisters, Pontardawe, Ammanford, Tumble, Brecon, Neath and Amman Valley crews responded to approximately 30 hectares of forestry on fire and utilised the Wildfire Helicopter.
The last few weeks have been extremely busy for fire and rescue crews across Wales who have been dealing with several wildfire incidents. Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) have attended over 490* wildfire incidents so far in 2023, of these incidents, 341* of them are believed to have been started deliberately.
Wildfires are responsible for the destruction of thousands of hectares of countryside, open space and wildlife habitats every year. MAWWFRS is issuing a reminder on how to stay safe while enjoying the outdoors during the summer months. Helpful advice and information on keeping safe outdoors is available on our website.
Operation Dawns Glaw is a multi-agency taskforce of specialist from key agencies across Wales who are committed to reduce, and where possible eliminate the impact of grass fires across Wales.
Images by Station Commander, Nick Rees.
