A series of fires have ravaged multiple homes in central England, leading to significant evacuations and reports of extensive damage. Firefighters are currently engaged in battling these blazes, which have erupted on what is being recorded as the hottest day of the year in the region.
So far this summer, firefighters have battled mainly wildfires in rural areas and moorland across the country. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged retailers to limit the sale of disposable barbecues.
“This is a wildfire with several points of origin, now involving multiple houses on fire,” West Midlands Fire Service said in a statement about the blaze affecting an area near the town of Stourbridge. Three firefighters were taken to hospital and six members of the public were treated for smoke inhalation and one child was taken to the hospital, the fire service said, adding that people had been evacuated from the region. At least six properties were affected by the fire, emergency services said. “The devastation is extensive,” he said, blaming “tinder dry” conditions for the rapid spread.
