FIRE crews in Cornwall responded to a large 'out-of-control' bonfire at a farm outside Helston yesterday.

A fire crew from Helston was dispatched to a farm outside of the town at around 11:22am yesterday (Mar 1) after receiving a report of a large fire at a farm.

Upon their arrival, the crew concluded that the large bonfire was not under control and used a hose reel to extinguish the fire as well as turn over the materials.

Fire crews also offered advice on any future controlled burning. 

A spokesperson for Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service said: "Critical Control took a call to a report of a large fire at a farm outside Helston.

"A crew from Helston was mobilised and found a large bonfire in progress that was not under control.

"They used a hose reel to extinguish the fire and turned over the materials.

"Advice for future controlled burning has been offered."

Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service also has advice on its website about how to keep safe and ensure any controlled burns are legal. 

According to Cornwall Fire and Rescue: "If you're planning a bonfire in Cornwall, inform Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service before you start.

"This helps us avoid sending fire engines to false alarms when they could be responding to a real emergency.

"Call us on 0203 162 2240 and tell the Critical Control Operator:

  • Your location.
  • Tell the operator if the burn is on domestic or commercial property.
  • Time you intend to start burning.
  • Confirm when you have finished burning.

"With controlled burns, it is illegal to leave a fire unattended or to have too few people to control it. Always ensure a fire is completely out before you leave it and check next day to ensure it has not reignited."