Crews are at the scene of a moor fire at Rivington.
Multiple witness reports indicate that there is a significant fire on moorland close to Rivington Pike this evening (13 May).
One witness told Blog Preston that the fire could be seen from Rivington Road close to Belmont but smoke can be seen rising for some distance around the scene.
The cause of the fire is not yet clear as this early stage and Blog Preston has contacted Lancashire Fire & Rescue Service for more information.
The fire service yesterday warned that they had tackled several wildfires in remote areas across the county over the weekend.
They said: “This weekend, we tackled several wildfires in remote peatland areas across the county – fires started by disposable BBQs and campfires. These might seem harmless, but on dry ground, they can quickly ignite the peat beneath the surface and spark uncontrollable fires.
“Many people don’t realise how easily this happens. A disposable BBQ might look harmless – just a small tin with a bit of charcoal – but when placed directly on the ground, it scorches the surface and starts a smouldering fire underground. It might seem out when you leave, but the heat can linger below the surface.
“Later, as temperatures rise or the wind picks up, that hidden fire can flare up and ignite surrounding grass and vegetation—spreading fast and far before anyone can react.”
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