The PSNI today (Wednesday, June 25) advised road users to seek an “alternative route” after a road in Co. Tyrone was blocked because a tractor was on fire.
Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service attended the fire which took place on the Tattyreagh Road in Fintona, Co. Tyrone.
There were no immediate reports of any injuries or casualties in relation to the tractor and the fire.
Fire advice
Separately, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service has warned that if summer temperatures rise again people should be aware of the potential risks.
Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service area commander, Suzanne Fleming said: “Summer is a time for fun and relaxation but it is crucial to stay aware of potential dangers.
“If you are heading to a caravan or camping, enjoying a swim and taking a boat trip, having a picnic with family, or lighting a barbeque or fire pit with friends, please follow our safety advice. By taking proactive steps, we can help prevent accidents and keep our community safe.”
She said that emergency services have to attend an increased number of callouts in the countryside over the summer months.
One key message from the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service is that members of the public should “only use barbeques in a suitable and safe area and ensure they are fully extinguished and cold before disposing of it”.
She has also urged people to “extinguish your cigarette ends properly and take home litter”.
According to Commander Suzanne Fleming careless actions “can often lead to wildfires which can be devastating for our community and can be easily prevented.”
The emergency services has cautioned that wildfires can easily start in dry heat and has issued a preventive checklist with advice including:
- Do not throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows;
- Avoid using open fires in the countryside;
- Do not leave bottles or glass in woodland or grassland;
- Only use barbeques in a suitable and safe area and never leave them unattended;
- Do not attempt to tackle fires that can’t be extinguished with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.
