Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service thanks communities during unprecedented demand

Over recent weeks, Mid and West Wales Fire and Rescue Service (MAWWFRS) has responded to an exceptionally high number of emergencies, including major wildfires and significant property fires across its response area.

Notable incidents in recent weeks around the locality included an incident at Morfa Bychan Beach in Pendine, where from August 16, Firefighters (including crews from Tenby) responded to a wildfire.

From Wednesday, August 12, local fire crews were also supported by a crew from Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, to respond to a significant wildfire at Rhandirmwyn, near Llandovery.

At the height of the incident, the fire covered approximately 250 hectares.

This sustained demand placed considerable pressure on resources, with Firefighters, Control Room Operators and support staff working tirelessly to protect communities, homes, businesses and the environment.

MAWWFRS recognises that operations of this scale cannot be delivered in isolation. Throughout this period, the support, patience and cooperation shown by communities and local stakeholders has been greatly appreciated and has played an important role in helping to protect people and property.

This work would not have been possible without the support of other Fire and Rescue Services through mutual aid arrangements, including South Wales Fire and Rescue Service (SWFRS), North Wales Fire and Rescue Service and Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service.

MAWWFRS also extends its sincere thanks to partner agencies, including Dyfed-Powys Police, South Wales Police, Natural Resources Wales, Public Health Wales and Local Authorities, whose collaboration and assistance have been invaluable.

MAWWFRS would also like to express its heartfelt gratitude to local communities, landowners, farmers and businesses across Mid and West Wales.

Throughout these incidents, communities demonstrated remarkable generosity by providing meals, refreshments, hygiene items, equipment, local knowledge and practical assistance to crews operating in challenging conditions.

Local farmers made a significant contribution to wildfire containment and extinguishing efforts, generously giving their time and resources at vulnerable areas using agricultural machinery, tractors and water tankers.

Recent drought conditions and sustained periods of warm, dry weather have left vegetation exceptionally dry and highly combustible, significantly increasing the risk of wildfires and enabling fires to spread rapidly across large areas.

MAWWFRS Chief Fire Officer, Craig Flannery, said:“Recent weeks have presented some of the most significant operational challenges our Service has faced in recent years.

“A Critical Incident Team was established due to the number of large-scale incidents crews were responding to simultaneously. Thankfully, due to the progress made by our dedicated crews, this team has since been stood down.

“The willingness of communities to assist, often at short notice and during difficult circumstances, has played a significant role in helping our crews respond effectively and safely, and we are very grateful for their support.”

While the period of unprecedented wildfire activity has eased, MAWWFRS crews continue to respond to and manage a number of ongoing incidents. Firefighters remain on the ground monitoring conditions, tackling isolated hotspots and undertaking measures to prevent further fire spread.

MAWWFRS continues to work with the Wales Wildfire Board to promote wildfire prevention and encourage responsible behaviour in the countryside.