Firefighters tackle large grass fire
Firefighters tackle large grass fire
31 March 2009
published by www.thenorthernecho.co.uk
United Kingdom — Firefighters have tackled a large grass fire within yards from houses after a range of wooden outbuildings caught fire.
Residents said strong wind blowing away from the houses had prevented a potentially worse blaze.
A spokesman for the Durham and Darlington Fire and Rescue Service said three appliances were sent to Hawthorne Close in Kimblesworth, near Durham, after the fire was reported to the rear of the houses at 1.30pm yesterday.
The spokesman said: “Two hosereels were used to tackle the fire.
“The blaze destroyed about 2000 sq m of grass and gorse, as well as a range of timber buildings.
“The fire was brought under control within an hour, but firefighters remained at the scene until 4pm to damp the area down.”
Resident Stephen Thompson said: “I dont know how it was started, but I understand two youths were seen running away.
“I noticed thick smoke at about 1.30pm. There was thick smoke and it looked as though the fire was getting close to the houses.
“Fortunately the wind was blowing away from the houses and from a number of pigeon crees.”
Another resident, who did not wish be named, said the outbuildings were disused.
