Firefighters reveal cause of fire on Sheffield community's playing fields
Glow of blaze was seen for miles in the dusk sky
Firefighters have revealed the cause of a fire which gripped playing fields in Sheffield last night, with its flames seen for miles.
South Yorkshire firefighters spent over an hour putting out the flames at what was the latest blaze to hit the city involving flames in its parks and fields.
Now it has been confirmed that the blaze was thought to have been caused by an arsonist.
South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue said in a statement: “Three fire engines were called to grass fire at Sky Edge Playing fields after a call was received at 9.02pm.
“Two hose reels were used to extinguish the fire and the incident had been dealt with by 10.15pm. The fire is believed to have been set deliberately.”
Pictures and video submitted to The Star by residents show the orange glow of the flames against the dusk sky yesterday evening.
Last month firefighters warned wildfires continue to pose a significant risk, as a campaign was launched to raise awareness of their risks that the current dry conditions posed.
Chris Tyler, Group Manager in South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service's Community Safety Team said that time: “Wildfires continue to pose a significant risk.
“Not only are animals and habitats destroyed by wildfires, but these incidents often take a long time for our crews to extinguish, reducing their availability to respond to other potentially life-threatening emergencies.”
People are urged to:
> Never use disposable barbecues, campfires or any naked flames on moorland.
> Take all litter home, especially glass bottles and disposable barbecues.
> Dispose of cigarettes responsibly.
> Report any fire immediately by calling 999 and asking for the Fire Service.
> If possible, use the what3words app to provide an accurate location.
> Leave the area immediately and never attempt to tackle a wildfire yourself.