Four fire engines were called to a wildfire in which one person was hurt.

At around 4pm on Thursday (May 25), fire crews attended the grass fire on Whitehall Road in Darwen.

Four fire engines from Darwen, Blackburn, and Hyndburn, together with the wildfire unit from Rawtenstall, were in attendance.

Firefighters used one hose reel and wind blowers to extinguish the wildfire.

One person received a precautionary check to ensure they were uninjured.

Fire crews spent one hour and 20 minutes battling the blaze.

A spokesperson for the fire service said: “At 4.09pm on May 25, four fire engines from Darwen, Blackburn, and Hyndburn, together with the wildfire unit from Rawtenstall, attended a grass fire on Whitehall Road, Darwen.

“The incident involved a large grassy area. Firefighters used one hose reel and wind blowers to extinguish the fire.

“One casualty received a precautionary check at the scene. Crews were in attendance for an hour and twenty minutes.”

According to the fire service, wildfires are a serious problem in Lancashire.

A spokesperson said: “We deal with more and more fires on moorland and grassland each year, with many sadly being caused by the actions of people.

“However, there are many ways you can help to avoid wildfires starting. It is especially important to be very wary of wildfires when out camping, caravanning and using disposable barbecues.

“Wildfires are becoming more common each year. Climate change is also a factor because it means some areas are drier and more likely to set alight.

“But with your help, we can reduce the number and seriousness of wildfires in Lancashire. This will stop them causing costly damage and endangering lives.

“Wildfires are easily started and can spread rapidly putting people, property and infrastructure at risk. The terrain makes them challenging to firefight and demands large amounts of our resources, as well as from the resources of our partners.”

Tips on preventing wildfires:

  • If you see a wildfire, always report it on 999. Don’t assume someone already has.
  • Never use disposable barbecues on moorland or grassland. Pack a picnic instead.
  • Avoid smoking on moorland. If you do, always extinguish your cigarettes and other smoking materials thoroughly.
  • Do not dispose of cigarette butts out of car windows.
  • Never leave bottles behind, as sunlight can become focused as it shines through glass, starting fires.
  • Keep children away from lighters and matches.

If you are a landowner or manage land, please only carry out controlled burns if absolutely necessary and within the legal timeframe each year. It is very easy for controlled burns to get out of control and cause unintended wildfires.