Farm shed fire destroys machinery in Compton Dundon
Date of alert:
Wednesday, 23 March 2022
Crime Ref:
Force:
Avon & Somerset Constabulary
A tractor and dumper truck were destroyed when a farm shed caught fire near Somerton yesterday afternoon (March 22).
Firefighters from Street, Yeovil, Somerton and Wells were called to reports of the fire in a field in Compton Dundon at 1.55pm.
On arrival they found the shed to be well alight with a tractor and dumper truck inside.
They used an attack jet, beaters and drag forks together with a fire service water carrier that ensured a plentiful supply of water.
Unfortunately, the shed, tractor and dumper truck were burnt out in the fire, which is believed to have been an accidental ignition.
Yesterday an amber wildfire alert was issued for Dorset and Wiltshire due to the unseasonally warm and dry weather expected this week - and farmers are being urged to take particular care.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service group manager Jason Moncrieff said: “While the warm and dry spring weather is very welcome after the winter, it does increase the risk of fires spreading quickly if something happens to cause ignition.
"We are urging local farmers to take extra care, as sparks from hot machinery can easily lead to a field catching fire, and we ask everyone enjoying our beautiful countryside and coastline to take extra care and be vigilant with anything that could lead to a fire starting.”
This is the first amber wildfire alert of 2022 in Dorset and Wiltshire.
An amber alert means that, should a wildfire be experienced, it could spread quickly and easily due to the dry conditions.
