Fire Crews Tackling Heathland Blaze At Headon Warren

(c) IsleofWight.com

Firefighters from across the Isle of Wight are continuing to tackle a heathland fire at Headon Warren in the West Wight.

Hampshire & Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service says crews are working to contain a blaze affecting an area of around 150 metres by 150 metres of gorse and heathland.

The incident was reported shortly after 9.15am this morning (Thursday), with appliances from stations including Freshwater, Ryde, Cowes, Ventnor, East Cowes and Newport sent to the scene.

Specialist 4x4 vehicles from Ryde and Shanklin have also been deployed due to the remote location of the fire.

Around 10 pumping appliances are understood to be involved, with crews working to surround the affected area and stop the fire spreading.

Because of the difficult terrain, firefighters have had to approach the blaze on foot, using knapsack sprayers to tackle the flames. Pumping appliances are currently unable to get close enough to the burning gorse.

The National Trust, which manages the site, is supporting the operation by helping improve access and assisting crews with moving equipment and hoses.

Footpaths around Headon Warren have been closed while firefighting operations continue.

Additional resources from the mainland are also being brought over to provide extra support at the incident and maintain cover across Isle of Wight fire stations.

A live video feed of the fire is available via this link:

UPDATE 4.20pm:

The National Trust has thanked the 65 firefighters and supporting teams who continue to battle the major wildfire at Headon Warren, as efforts remain focused on protecting the rare heathland habitat.

Crews have faced challenging conditions due to the remote location, dry ground and lack of direct water access, with firefighters establishing a relay system to pump water up the hillside.

The response has involved teams from across the Isle of Wight, alongside 22 mainland crews brought across the Solent to support the operation.

The National Trust and local land managers have also assisted firefighters throughout the incident, providing equipment, vehicles, supplies and helping improve access to the site.

The blaze, which has affected a significant area of the West Wight’s heathland, has highlighted the vulnerability of these rare habitats.

The National Trust is reminding visitors that during dry conditions, even a small spark can cause devastating damage, urging people not to light fires or barbecues, discard cigarettes, or leave behind litter.