FIRE chiefs are warning people to take more care outdoors following an inferno which ripped through Kidderminster fields and forced the closure of part of a busy road.

Eight crews from Worcestershire and the West Midlands were called to the large wild fire at Axborough Wood, Stourbridge Road shortly before 2.35pm yesterday afternoon (July 19).

Police were also called to the scene and the eastbound carriageway on Stourbridge Road was closed for a number of hours as the incident was being dealt with.

There were no reported casualties at the incident.

Group Commander Robert Allen from Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said: “The crews worked closely with our colleagues from West Midlands Fire Service to control the wild fire, which had spread across a number of fields and Axborough Wood.”

The service is again reminding people to take note of outdoor safety advice to minimise the risk of such fires occurring. This includes:

*Only light barbeques where they are permitted - in suitable and safe areas; never leave them unattended.

*Never use petrol on barbeques or fires, it can ignite quickly and soon get out of control. Only use approved lighting fuels.

*Clear dry vegetation, such as leaves, to form a circle of earth around the fire. Make sure it is downwind and at least 10 metres away from any buildings or structures.

*Never leave fires unattended and make sure they are fully extinguished after use.

*Extinguish cigarettes properly, don't throw cigarette ends on the ground or out of car windows.

*Take your rubbish with you, especially glass bottles, which can magnify the sun's rays and start a fire as well as hurt people and animals.

*Avoid open fires in the countryside. Always have them in safe designated areas.

*If you see a fire in the countryside, report it immediately by calling 999. Early detection can prevent it from developing into a large wildfire incident.

*Don't attempt to tackle fires that can't be put out with a bucket of water – leave the area as quickly as possible.

People can get further safety advice by visiting www.hwfire.org.uk.