Emergency firefighters from across the New Forest responded to a significant gorse and heathland blaze in East Boldre on Saturday afternoon, with multiple crews working to contain the wind-driven fire.
Fire teams from Beaulieu, Hythe, and Lymington attended the incident, with specialist support vehicles deployed from Ringwood, Hardley, Lyndhurst, and Eastleigh. The emergency response was triggered following approximately 20 calls to the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service Control Room.
The wind-fuelled blaze covered an extensive area measuring 225 metres by 100 metres near Hatchet Pond off Beaulieu Road. Firefighters deployed hose reels, water jets, and beaters to suppress and control the flames before conducting thorough damping down operations.
HIWFRS crews departed the scene after issuing the stop message at 16:28.
Countryside Fire Safety Guidelines:
To ensure safety in rural areas and preserve the countryside for future visitors:
- Avoid lighting campfires in the countryside
- Never bring barbecues or burning charcoal into enclosed areas such as tents
- Always supervise barbecues and dispose of them properly
- Don’t leave glass bottles in direct sunlight as they may cause fires
- Respect fire bans in prohibited areas including the New Forest National Park
- Ensure cigarettes are fully extinguished and disposed of correctly
- Remove all litter or use designated bins
- Keep water, sand, or a garden hose nearby for emergencies
- Position barbecues well away from dry vegetation, structures, and tents
- Use level ground for barbecue setup
Appeal for missing Basingstoke man Paul Fitch
If You Spot a Fire:
Should you discover a countryside fire, prioritise safety and immediately contact emergency services on 999. Avoid attempting to tackle fires that cannot be extinguished with a bucket of water.
Provide a map reference or notable landmark such as a farm or public house to assist emergency services in locating the incident. The What3Words mobile application can help pinpoint exact locations.
Estimate the burning area’s size and describe the terrain type—whether grassland, bracken, woodland, or open moorland. Evacuate the vicinity immediately for your safety.
