WATCH: Laois Fire and Rescue Service drone footage shows the aftermath of a fire
Laois Fire and Rescue Service has published a video showing the damage caused by recent fires
Firefighters in Laois have dealt with more than 20 fires associated with the ongoing hot weather.
The fires include one which could have resulted in widespread destruction at Derryounce in Portarlington. Thanks to the early intervention of the fire services disaster was averted and the fire was put out.
“Since the 1st of July, Laois County Fire & Rescue Service has attended over 20 incidents relating to gorse, grass, bog, forest and hay/stubble fires. An extended dry spell has triggered an orange high fire risk warning for most of the month,” Chief Fire Officer Declan Power stated.
He warned that a Condition Orange wildland fire danger notice is currently in effect nationwide. Sustained dry weather and warm temperatures have left vegetation like grass, gorse, and heather highly flammable, allowing wildfires to start easily and spread rapidly.
We are appealing to all members of the public, visitors to recreational areas, and landowners to exercise extreme caution and remain vigilant,” he stated.