Fire station in south Shropshire hosts wildfire event for farmers

A Shropshire fire station held a wildfire event for the local farming community to highlight the importance of working together during wildfires.

Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with the Shropshire Star’s free newsletter

Clun Fire Station, which hosted the event, said the event focused on one important message: “Working together makes our communities safer.”

A spokesperson said the day brought farmers and firefighters together to share knowledge, experience and practical advice around wildfire prevention, preparedness and response.

The event followed a large wildfire in the Clun area in August, which saw dozens of firefighters battle a woodland blaze overnight, with the assistance of local farmers.

A spokesperson for the fire station said: “Throughout the day, we showcased how the farming community and fire service can support one another during wildfire incidents, including: fire service wildfire response and tactics, the valuable role of agricultural machinery and local knowledge, water supplies and access to rural locations, farm access, land management and identifying potential risks, how farmers and firefighters can work effectively together during an incident, and sharing practical advice to help prevent wildfires from occurring in the first place.

“Our farming community has an incredible understanding of the local landscape, access routes, water sources, land and potential hazards. Combined with the skills, training and resources of the fire service, this knowledge can be incredibly valuable when dealing with a wildfire. This was evident following the recent wildfire at Black Hill.

“Just as importantly, today was about building relationships before an incident happens — so that when we are faced with a wildfire, we already know how we can support each other.

“A huge thank you to Acton Farming Co. for hosting the event and to everyone who attended and contributed to the day. It was fantastic to see such a positive turnout and a real willingness to work together to protect our rural communities.

“A special thank you to everyone who helped organise and deliver the event and to our local farming community for giving up their time to come along. Strong partnerships build resilient communities.”