Date: 1st August, 2025
Time: 11.27pm
Description:
We were called at 11.27pm yesterday (1 August) to Park Lane, Shapwick to reports of a fire involving a barn. Initially crews from Wimborne, Blandford and Poole along with the water carrier from Poole attended. Firefighters used two main lines and one hose reel jet to prevent the fire from spreading. At 3am, the incident was scaled back and a relief crew from Christchurch attended along with a support vehicle from Ferndown and a lightweight off-road vehicle from Blandford.
Local residents were advised to keep windows and doors closed due to smoke in the area due to the potential of asbestos-based materials.
Firefighters worked with local farmers to ensure a fire break was created around the barn, further reducing the possible spread of the fire. Our stop came in at 12.19pm today (2 August) and the incident has been handed back to the owner who will monitor remaining bales as a controlled burn.
Local residents are now advised that the smoke from the bales poses a low risk to the public and therefore advice relating to windows and doors has now been lifted. Individuals with existing respiratory conditions are encouraged to still take extra precautions by limiting outside exposure. If you or anyone else does feel unwell, please contact 111 or 999 in an emergency.
It is anticipated that the fire will continue to burn over the coming days. We will continue to monitor this incident and provide updates accordingly.
Location: Park Lane, Shapwick, Blandford Forum, UK