ALMOST 30 firefighters battled a blaze at a quarry in Rubery last night which threatened homes in the area.
It broke out at the quarry off Cock Hill Lane around 8pm and, with the smoke being seen for miles, prompted more than 60 calls to West Midlands Fire Service.
Seven crews were sent to the scene as the area of grass, trees and gorse, covering 200m by 200mm, was engulfed in flames.
Several residents on Chaddersley Close and Brookdale Close reported the fire was getting close to their homes and fire crews were dispatched to protect the properties.
The homes were temporarily evacuated while fire crews worked to stop the fire spread, which they were able to do successfully with no damage caused to the properties.
The residents were able to return shortly afterwards.
A total of six main water jets, three hose reel jets and beaters were used to tackle the blaze which was started deliberately by youths seen in the area.
A WMFS drone was also brought in to help crews in locate hot spots.
Most of the firefighters left the scene just after midnight and inspections were carried out at 4.30am and 8.30am this morning.
On both occasions, smouldering areas were identified and thermal imaging cameras were used, along with water jets to dampen down the hotspots.
The video (by Dave – @D1EJJ) was posted on Twitter –
@birmingham_live @WorcsLive Rubery Quarry on fire. Emergency services in attendance. pic.twitter.com/vLmGzi5nlW
— Dave (@D1EJJ) August 9, 2022
