Huge Canford Heath fire believed to be started by 'human act'

Dorset & Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service Group Manager Graham Kewley said it was believed to have been started by a human act, but “likely to be reckless rather than any malicious act”.

It comes as Dorset Police have launched an investigation into the blaze. 

Mr Kewley said: “We have conducted joint investigation with Dorset Police and we have identified the location that the fire started, also being able to look at some social media images of the fire in the early stages.

“Whilst we may never identify an exact motive, the likely cause at this time is believed to be from a human cause, our working hypothesis is it is likely to be a reckless rather than any malicious act.

READ MORE: Canford Heath fire latest as fire crews on heath all night

“We have identified the location and there is nothing in terms of accidental cause, no evidence of barbeque or a camp fire.

“The location where the fire started there were a number of people in the area at the time and there is nothing to suggest it is an accidental fire. Accidental fires are difficult to get going, the conditions have to be right.”

A spokesperson for DW Fire and Rescue added: “Our investigation into the cause of the fire has begun. Although we may never be able to identify the true cause, we believe this fire to have been caused deliberately with some human intervention.”

Read more: Canford Heath fire tore across land the size of 23 football pitches

As reported, 15 fire engines were in attendance as the blaze destroyed an area of approximately 500m x 500m.

Local residents had to be evacuated form their homes while crews battled to control and contain the fire.