Firefighters from Hampshire and the Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service brought a sizable shrubland fire under control on Friday after it broke out in a field off Fitzwygram Way, Havant.
Neighbours reported thick smoke drifting over the area, forcing some to close windows and doors while crews worked to extinguish the blaze. The service said the fire is now under control, though teams remained on site for inspections.
Fire service response and safety checks
A spokesperson for the fire service confirmed crews had extinguished the incident and said a return visit to the ground would take place later in the evening to check for any remaining hotspots.
"Having extinguished the shrubland fire, crews are now beginning to leave the scene in Havant. One crew will return later this evening to conduct a reinspection of the land, checking for any signs of hotspots."
The service emphasised that the recent hot weather has led to an increased number of outdoor fires across the county. While investigators have not confirmed deliberate ignition in this incident, the fire service noted that many recent blazes are likely to be either accidental or man-made.
Local context: a week of similar incidents
Friday's fire follows several other outdoor blazes in the Portsmouth and wider Hampshire area this week, highlighting how vulnerable dry vegetation is during prolonged warm spells.
- Monday, July 27 — a combine harvester fire on Posbrook Lane, Titchfield, spread to two adjacent fields.
- Tuesday — a four-year-old boy suffered serious burns after an abandoned ash pile in Foxes Forest, Hilsea, ignited and caused injury.
| Date | Location | Incident |
|---|---|---|
| 31 July | Fitzwygram Way, Havant | Shrubland field fire (contained) |
| 27 July | Posbrook Lane, Titchfield | Combine harvester fire spread to fields |
| 28 July | Foxes Forest, Hilsea | Abandoned ash pile — child seriously burned |
Advice for residents and visitors
The fire service repeated straightforward but important precautions to reduce the risk of wildfires while enjoying the countryside this summer:
- Do not light barbecues or campfires in dry vegetation.
- Extinguish cigarettes properly and do not discard them on the ground.
- Take all litter home — glass and other debris can start fires in hot conditions.
Crews said they will continue to patrol and respond to outdoor fires and urged anyone who spots a blaze to call the emergency services promptly.
This incident is a reminder of how quickly dry grass and scrub can ignite and spread smoke into residential areas. Local authorities and emergency services are monitoring the situation while advising residents to remain vigilant during the ongoing dry spell.
Reporting from Portsmouth: William Kelly, InfoRadar.
