Suspected deliberate wildfire destroys 15 hectares of grassland in Pontypool

In recent weeks our crews have attended a series of grassfires across South Wales. In some cases the fire has spread destroying many hectares of grassland and putting lives in danger.

In Pontypool 15 hectares of grassland in Lasgarn Woods were affected by a wildfire which continued to spread until extinguished by our crews using specialist equipment.

Operation Dawns Glaw, a multi-agency taskforce of specialist from key agencies across Wales aims to reduce, and where possible eliminate the impact of grassfires across Wales.

Over the last two years our crews have attended over 2050 deliberate wildfires and rising. This increase has in part been attributed to the number to the lockdown measures in place as a result of the Coronavirus pandemic – and as we enter another year whereby staycations here in Wales are likely to dominate our holidays, the taskforce is keen to make sure that we all do so safely, protecting the precious countryside to include its wildlife and habitats which we are so proud to have on our doorsteps.

The Service’s Fire Crime Unit are working alongside the taskforce to educate and prevent wildfires by cutting fire break trails to reduce the spread of such fires.

Deliberately setting grass is irresponsible and unacceptable, but at a time of increased pressure, we need to work together and avoid putting further strain on Wales’ emergency services.

We would urge anyone who has information on suspected deliberate fires, or who sees anything suspicious to contact 101, or call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. If you see a fire, or anyone starting a fire, please call 999 immediately.