Firefighters Respond to Grassland Blaze Near Cotwall End Nature Reserve
West Midlands Fire Service crews spent approximately two hours tackling a fire on grassland near Cotwall End Local Nature Reserve in Gornal, Dudley, on Sunday afternoon (July 12). The fire service issued a public warning to avoid the area as firefighters worked to extinguish the flames.
The incident was first reported at 2.20pm, with two fire engines and a 4×4 brigade response vehicle dispatched from Dudley, Tipton, and Wolverhampton stations. The first crew arrived within five minutes of being mobilised. Firefighters used beaters and a hose reel jet to bring the fire under control, and the scene was cleared by 4.17pm.
Public Urged to Avoid Area
At 2.50pm, West Midlands Fire Service posted a message on social media stating: “Crews are in attendance at Cotwall End Nature Reserve, Cotwall End Road, Gornal, Dudley, where they have responded to a fire. Please avoid the area, where possible.” The warning remained in effect until the incident concluded.
A West Midlands Fire Service spokesperson provided an update to BirminghamLive on Monday morning (July 13), confirming the details of the response. The fire affected grassland near the nature reserve, but no injuries or property damage were reported.
Fire Safety Advice Issued
In the wake of the incident, the fire service reminded the public that small fires can “easily start in parks or woodland areas” and urged residents to help keep outdoor spaces safe. Litter, particularly glass bottles that can reflect sunlight, was highlighted as a fire risk. The service advised people to take such items home with them.
Smokers were also reminded to ensure cigarettes are “completely extinguished in proper cigarette bins” or, if safe disposal is not possible, to “take cigarette ends with you and dispose of them safely.” The fire service emphasised that these simple steps can reduce the risk of fires in natural areas.
