Residents are being urged to keep their windows and doors closed this morning (July 12) as smoke continues to rise from a bushfire in Salisbury Plain.
It happened on Monday on land used for military training, and Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said it had been notified by the military that there was a fire in the area of the strike near Archfont.
The Ministry of Defense confirmed that they had suspended live firing until the fires were extinguished.
A Ministry of Defense spokesman said: “We are monitoring several fires at the Salisbury Plain training area and can confirm there is currently no risk to the public.
“We are monitoring the fire and are in close communication with Dorset and Wiltshire Fire Service who are ready to assist if the fire spreads beyond the impact area.”
Due to the location, the fire department was not present. Firefighters cannot enter the affected area due to the danger of unexploded ordnance.
It comes after the fire service issued a safety warning amid hot weather in the region.
People are being asked to be careful with campfires, bonfires and barbecues as a new amber bushfire warning has been issued.
A heat warning level has been put in place across the South West, with the Met Office also issuing an amber weather watch which will come into force on Sunday July 17 when temperatures could reach the low 30Cs.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service group manager Brad Stevens said: “While the sunshine is very welcome after the recent rain, it does mean an increased risk of bushfires starting.
“If you’re visiting our deserts, forests or countryside, please avoid the campfire and take a picnic, not a barbecue – just a few simple steps can make a real difference.”
He added: “We would also remind people to take care if they have a barbecue or fire at home.
“Too often we see properties destroyed when an initially small fire gets out of control. Never leave the fire or barbecue unattended and place it away from fences, trees or buildings.’
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