Fire crews tackle large woodland blaze at Hawley Lakes in Blackwater

Friday, 14 August 2026 11:00

By Philip Keeler

Fire at Hawley Lakes in Blackwater - CREDIT: Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service

Firefighters have been tackling a large woodland fire at Hawley Lakes in Blackwater.

Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service said four fire engines and a water carrier were sent to the scene at 7.45am on Thursday, 13 August.

People were asked to avoid the area while crews carried out firefighting operations. Staying away also allowed emergency vehicles to reach the scene without being delayed.

No information has been released about how the fire started.

The incident comes during a period of hot and dry weather, when grass, heathland and woodland can catch fire easily and flames can spread rapidly.

What you should do if you see a wildfire

Anyone who discovers a wildfire should move to a safe location away from the flames, vegetation and smoke before calling 999 and asking for the fire service.

People should not assume somebody else has already reported the incident and should not attempt to fight the fire themselves.

Callers should provide as much information as possible about the location and size of the blaze, together with the direction in which it appears to be spreading. An Ordnance Survey grid reference or a location from the what3words app can help emergency services find the fire.

People should not travel towards a wildfire to take photographs or watch the emergency response because this could place them in danger and delay fire crews.

If someone encounters smoke while inside a vehicle, they should close the windows and air vents and move away from the area if it is safe to do so.

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