A significant fire that broke out at Cannock Chase, a popular Midlands beauty spot, has been contained, according to Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service. At the height of the incident, 15 fire crews were deployed to surround the blaze and prevent further spread.
Fire crews called to Cannock Chase on Wednesday afternoon
The fire service was first alerted to the incident at approximately 2:30pm on Wednesday, August 5, after smoke was seen rising from the area. Firefighters from multiple stations across Staffordshire responded, working together to bring the flames under control.
By Thursday, August 6, the fire had been contained, but a number of crews remained at the scene to dampen down hotspots and ensure the area was safe. The service has urged locals not to be alarmed if they see additional fire engines heading to the location, as this is part of the routine response and does not indicate an escalation.
Residents advised to close windows and avoid area
In an update, a spokesperson for Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "We’ve still got a number of crews working to extinguish the fire and dampen down hotspots on Cannock Chase today (Thursday, August 6)."
"At its height, 15 crews worked together to surround the fire and contain further spread after smoke was seen coming from the area at roughly 2.30pm yesterday. While some crews have been released from the incident, we still expect to have a large presence in the area today as work continues to bring the incident to a safe conclusion."
The spokesperson added: "Please don’t be alarmed if you see further fire engines making to the area today. This is part of our routine response to this incident and does not mean it is escalating in any way. We’re still asking people to close windows and doors and avoid the area as a precaution due to heavy smoke."
Community support acknowledged
The fire service expressed gratitude for the public’s support, saying: "We’d like to thank everyone for their positive messages and thanks to the firefighters who have been working hard to keep the local community safe."
Cannock Chase, designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, attracts thousands of visitors each year. The cause of the fire has not yet been confirmed, and investigations are likely to follow once the incident is fully resolved.
