Fire breaks out across Sayers Common in Sussex

Crews from West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service were called to put out the blaze, which erupted in Sayers Common off Furzeland Way yesterday at about 3pm.

Fire fighters from Burgess Hill, Partridge Green and Storrington fire services were also called to the scene.

Furzeland Way was closed for several hours while crews dealt with the fire, which damaged nine outbuildings, a car and about one acre of field.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said the fire was an accident, but Incident Commander Joe Bullingham issued a reminder to the public not to burn household products as dry conditions can lead to fires spreading out of control.

He said: "Crews were called to a fire in the open in Sayers Common.

"It was a fire involving a field and nine outbuildings.

"The fire is now out but crews remained at the scene for approximately another hour, damping down the area.

"I'd like to take this opportunity to remind the public that during these dry conditions, that they refrain from burning household products."

Another spokesman from the fire service added: “West Sussex Fire & Rescue Service is urging all residents to take extra care over the warmer summer months to ensure that they do not put themselves or others at risk of fire.

"With the recent spell of dry weather, and more warm weather forecast over the weekend, there is an increased risk of wildfires.

“We can all take some very simple steps to help prevent fires breaking out and taking hold:

• Don’t burn household or garden waste

• Never leave a fire unattended

• Keep a bucket of water or sand nearby for emergencies

• If you are having a BBQ, ensure it is on a flat site, well away from a shed, trees or shrubs and keep children, garden games and pets well away from the cooking area.

• Ensure cigarettes are stubbed out and disposed of responsibly."