Firefighters Respond to Large Heathland Fire in Fleet

*08:30* 7 May

A crew from Rushmoor to returned to the scene last night to carry out a reinspection. During their checks, they discovered some signs of smouldering and proceeded to damp down the area. As a precaution, a crew will return later this morning to conduct a further inspection.

*18:30* 6 May

A stop message has been received. A grassland and gorse area measuring approximately 100m by 300m has been 100% destroyed by fire. Crews will now leave the scene but will return periodically throughout the night for re-inspections.

*18:00* 6 May

We have scaled down our response to one fire engine. We will remain onsite throughout the evening damping down and dealing with any hotspots.

*15:30* 6 May

Firefighters have now surrounded the fire near Norris Hill Road, with relief crews arriving on scene to take over from the initial response teams.

The incident, which began shortly after 10:20am, has affected a significant area of grass and gorse.

Crews will remain in attendance to continue damping down hot spots and ensure the fire is fully extinguished.

*14:45*6 May

These images from the scene show the scorched grassland and areas of gorse affected by the fire, highlighting the damage caused across the heathland.

This incident is an important reminder to always take extra care when visiting open countryside, particularly during dry conditions when vegetation can ignite easily and fire can spread rapidly.

Simple steps such as properly disposing of smoking materials, avoiding disposable barbecues, and never lighting open fires can help prevent wildfires and protect our natural environments.

Find out how you can prevent wildfire here.

*14:00* 6 May

Fire crews from Rushmoor, Portchester, Fleet, Basingstoke, Odiham, and Alton, supported by Surrey Fire & Rescue Service, remain on scene tackling a large grass and gorse fire near Norris Hill Road.

Firefighters are using hose reels and beaters to bring the flames under control and are continuing to dampen down the affected area.

Norris Hill Road remains closed to allow access for emergency service vehicles. Members of the public are urged to continue avoiding the area while operations are ongoing.

*11:30* 6 May 

Emergency services are currently in attendance at a significant fire in open land near Norris Hill Road, close to the canal in Fleet.

More than 40 firefighters from Hampshire are on scene, supported by crews from Surrey Fire & Rescue Service, working to bring the blaze under control. The fire is affecting approximately 3 hectares of grass, gorse, and surrounding heathland.

Firefighters are using multiple water jets to tackle the flames and prevent further spread.

Police have implemented road closures in the surrounding area. Members of the public are advised to avoid Fleet and nearby routes to allow emergency service vehicles clear access.

Further updates will be provided as the situation develops.