Fire crews have urged the public to be careful once again after a discarded cigarette sparked another heath fire in Dorset.
Firefighters from Ferndown, Verwood, Ringwood and Wimborne were called to a heath fire at Lions Lane in Ashley Heath at 7.05pm on Tuesday evening.
A spokesperson for Verwood Fire Station said three vehicles as well as an off road pump and three Landrovers extinguished the blaze, which was around 200 sq metres.
Read more: CCTV shows how close fire came to houses
Crews used two main lines and four hose reel jets along with beaters to bring the fire under control.
A spokesperson for Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Sadly, our crews have attended another heath fire this evening, at Lions Hill.
"These avoidable fires tie up so many of our resources which could impact a response to other emergencies.
"This fire was started by a discarded cigarette. Please help us protect our heathlands by remembering:
- Only BBQ in designated areas, never on heathland
- Don't litter
- Dispose of smoking materials responsibly
- If you see a fire, dial 999"
It comes just days after police launched an investigation into a huge wildfire which destroyed the heath at Canford Heath on Saturday night.
The fire service said they believe the fire was started deliberately through a 'human act'.
It could take 15 years for the heath to recover, experts have said.
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