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Saturday, 5th July 2008

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Film puts focus on fire awareness



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A HARD-HITTING film will be played in visitor centres across the region this summer to help prevent more of Northumberland's beautiful scenery going up in flames.
The DVD has been produced by the Northumberland Fire Group, chaired by Angus Collingwood-Cameron, and aims to educate the public that starting fires in the countryside puts people, wildlife and livelihoods at risk.
Much of the footage recalls the major blaze at Harbottle in April last year, when more than 400 acres of moorland and forest were engulfed by fire.
Firefighters took four days to quell and damp down the blaze, which was the worst wildfire in the county for several decades.
Pictures taken by Northumberland Gazette photographer Kate Wood of the blaze also feature in the video.
The film also includes a warning that climate change is likely to increase the risks of similar incidents in the future.
Marc Barendrecht, Northumberland Fire Group project officer, said: "But for the expertise of the fire service and the Northumberland Fire Group, the damage to Harbottle would have been even more devastating.
"People see dramatic pictures of fires in California, Spain and Australia, but don't think about it being a problem in their own backyard. But nothing could further from the truth.
"Prevention is our key aim and this video will help ensure the public are better informed about the risks and how to play safe in the countryside."
The video also includes interviews with some of those involved in tackling the Harbottle blaze, along with footage shot by the fire service and advice on enjoying a day out without leaving a scorched landscape behind.
The fire at Harbottle, which is partly managed by the Forestry Commission, started on moorland, but quickly spread to a nearby wood.
It highlights the fact that spring often experiences more fires than high summer due to vegetation drying out and becoming highly combustible.
Paul Hill Tout, Forestry Commission director England, said: "Climate prediction models indicate more frequent summer droughts are on the way. That means longer spells when the ground is very dry and an increased risk of fire.
"We need to minimise the threats to woods, moorland and other habitats, while allowing the public access to the countryside.
"This DVD is one part of managing the risk through effective public education. It's another milestone in the work of the fire group, which has developed into a highly productive partnership."

The full article contains 408 words and appears in n/a newspaper.
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  • Last Updated: 08 May 2008 10:28 AM
  • Source: n/a
  • Location: Alnwick, Northumberland
 
 
  

 
 

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