Kent Fire and Rescue Service has sent 10 fire engines to the incident as crews battle the blaze in the Medway area on Friday afternoon. A bulk water carrier and an all-terrain utility vehicle have also been deployed to support firefighting operations. Smoke from the wildfire is affecting the surrounding area, prompting fire chiefs to issue an urgent warning to people living or travelling nearby.
Residents urged to keep windows and doors shut
Kent Fire and Rescue Service said people around the Isle of Grain should keep windows and doors closed because of smoke coming from the fire. The warning was issued shortly after 4pm on Friday, August 7. A Kent Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson said: “People living or travelling near Isle of Grain in Rochester are being advised to close their windows and doors, due to smoke coming from a wildfire in the area. “Ten fire engines, a bulk water carrier and a utility terrain vehicle are in attendance, and crews are working hard to extinguish the fire. “Please share this advice with anyone in the affected area, who might not have access to the internet.”
Ten fire engines battling wildfire
Firefighters equipped with breathing apparatus are involved in the response. The specialist bulk water carrier will help crews maintain water supplies at the incident, while an all-terrain vehicle has been deployed to assist firefighters operating across difficult ground. South East Coast Ambulance Service is also listed as a partner agency responding to the incident. People travelling through the area should be prepared for smoke and emergency service activity while crews continue tackling the blaze.
