The Isles of Scilly Fire and Rescue Service has had an unusually busy spell recently, including responses to a series of incidents ranging from marine assistance to fires and flooding.
Fire in the Open on St Mary’s – Sunday 24 August 2025
On Sunday 24 August, crews from St Mary’s were mobilised to tackle a fire in the open on St Mary’s, which had spread to hedging and some vehicle parts, including a quantity of fibreglass.
The fire was still developing when crews arrived and had the potential to spread further to a nearby field.
For the initial attack, due to the smoke and extreme heat, firefighters wore breathing apparatus. Crews were able to make good use of the fire suppressant additive which helped in the early stages when the available water was scarce. Additional support was requested, resulting in attendance by a crew from St Martin’s.
Crews ran hose from a hydrant some 200 metres away to supplement their water supply in order to damp down the fire, hotspots and the surrounding area.
The fire would have spread to adjoining hedges and fields if left unchecked. It was also clear that the fire suppressant, which was purchased for the service last year, proved its worth in conserving water in the early stages.
The crew which came from St Martin's to support, assisted in both dealing with the fire, and in making up and servicing a large amount of equipment that had to be deployed. This was a testament to the service’s effective inter-island arrangements.
Special Service Call to a motor vessel – Monday 25 August 2025
On Bank Holiday Monday, crews were called to assist the Harbour Authority after a motor cruiser was damaged and was taking on water. Firefighters deployed a specialist salvage pump, enabling the vessel to be stabilised as it was safely escorted to Newlyn for repair, something that had to be completed ahead of the swell forecast for the following day.
Fire on St Agnes – Monday 25 August 2025
Later on Monday 25 August, another fire in the open occurred on St Agnes. Once again, the hot conditions made firefighting difficult. The St Agnes crew contained the initial fire and requested support from St Mary’s. This fire, though challenging, was effectively contained, preventing escalation and further damage. This incident was another good example of the service's effective inter-island arrangements.
Flooding on St Mary’s – Thursday 28 August 2025
The heavy rain that affected St Mary’s on the night of Thursday 28 August resulted in multiple flooding calls to fire control in Cornwall. Firefighters were called to 4 separate incidents. Responses were prioritised and crews were deployed to all 4 locations on St Mary's where flooding occurred, including the High Street in Hugh Town.
Fire crews were able to carry out pumping operations to prevent further water damage to properties where water had entered.
The Council’s Operational Services team also responded and attended a number of sites to ensure drains were checked and swiftly cleared as necessary, as well as assisting with the clear up operations.
It is estimated that approximately 29mm of rain fell in a period of around 20 minutes and the combination of the very heavy rain, and the high tide meant that drains were simply unable to cope with the volume of water in such a short space of time.
Chief Fire Officer Phil Martin said, “Whilst the damage sustained to property is regrettable in each of these incidents, I am pleased to say there were no injuries reported. I am proud of the work of our crews in extremes of weather, their prompt and professional response prevented further escalation and damage at each of these incidents.”
Reminders to the public
The Fire and Rescue Service is also reminding residents to remain vigilant:
- Bonfires: Keep them small, never leave them unattended, and avoid lighting them near hedges, vehicles, or outbuildings. Always have water or a means of extinguishing close at hand.
- Flooding: With sudden heavy rainfall, check and clear drains and gullies where safe to do so.
- Call early: If you spot a fire or flood developing, dial 999 without delay. Early action can make a big difference.
Image 1: Crews extinguish hotspots following the fire on St Mary’s on Sunday 24 August 2025
Image 2: A firefighter works to extinguish areas left smouldering after the fire had been contained on St Marys on Sunday 24 August 2025.