Wildfire Amber Warning Remains As Firefighters Battle Blazes

An amber weather warning for wildfires remains in effect across Northern Ireland, as the Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service (NIFRS) continues to combat several significant blazes.

Firefighters remain at the scene of wildfires in the Silent Valley and Ben Crom areas of Newcastle.

The NIFRS has reported a surge in calls, receiving 741 incidents at its Regional Control Centre between midnight on Thursday, 3rd April, and midnight on Saturday, 5th April. Chief Fire & Rescue Officer Aidan Jennings provided details on a major incident in Hilltown: "At 5pm on Saturday 5th April, NIFRS were mobilised to a significant wildfire on Sandbank Road, Hilltown. This was subsequently declared as a major incident. At the height of operations 15 fire appliances and over 100 firefighters worked together with our partner agencies, in difficult conditions and high winds throughout the night to bring the large wildfire under control. As a precaution a number of residents were evacuated from their homes on the Sandbank and Kilbroney roads, whilst the fire was brought under control. At approximately 3.00am (Sunday 6th April) resources began scaling back. The cause of this fire is believed to have been deliberate ignition."

Officer Jennings highlighted the strain these incidents place on resources: "These incidents are not only challenging and physically demanding for our Firefighters, it is extremely resource intensive. However we are reassuring the public that we have contingency plans in place and are continuing to respond to incidents should the public need us." He also commended the dedication of firefighters, control room operators, support employees, and partner agencies.

The NIFRS has issued the following advice to help prevent countryside fires:

• Avoid using open fires in the countryside.

• Extinguish cigarettes properly.

• Use barbeques safely and responsibly.

• Dispose of glass and bottles carefully.

• Park vehicles considerately.

• Keep children away from fire hazards.

• Do not attempt to tackle large fires.

• Report fires immediately to NIFRS by calling 999.

• Report suspected arson to the PSNI.

The service continues to urge the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to avoid further incidents.