Black smoke is billowing into the sky after a blaze broke out near a Birmingham school, prompting an emergency response and a plea for the public to stay away.
The fire was reported to have started "behind" Mapledene Primary School in Sheldon, near Mapledene Road and Greenvale Avenue, on the afternoon of August 3. Online reports suggest the blaze began in or near Sheldon Country Park, a popular green space in the area.
Emergency Services at the Scene
Firefighters and police were spotted at the scene, working to bring the incident under control. The community group Friends of Sheldon Country Park issued a statement on Facebook, urging residents to give emergency services the space they need.
"Please allow firefighters, park rangers and the emergency services the space they need to deal with this incident safely," the group wrote. "Please avoid the affected area. Do not gather to watch and do not block access routes needed by emergency vehicles."
The group also asked those planning to visit the park in the evening to postpone their visit until the incident is resolved. "Thank you to the firefighters and Park Rangers who are responding quickly to protect the park. We will provide further updates when we have more information," they added.
Heatwave Sparks Series of Fires
This incident follows a number of grassland fires across the West Midlands over the last 48 hours, during the latest heatwave. The hot and dry conditions have left parks and green spaces vulnerable to fire, with several blazes reported in the region.
BirminghamLive has contacted all three emergency services for comment. This is a breaking news story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Community Response
The Friends of Sheldon Country Park have been actively updating the community, with volunteers and park rangers working alongside firefighters to protect the park's wildlife and habitats. The park, known for its ancient woodland and meadows, is a cherished local asset.
Residents have been advised to close windows and doors to avoid smoke inhalation, and to keep pets indoors. Local schools, including Mapledene Primary, have been asked to monitor the situation, though no evacuation has been reported.
The fire serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by the current heatwave, with authorities urging the public to avoid open fires, dispose of cigarettes responsibly, and report any signs of smoke immediately.
