It took firefighters close to three hours to extinguish the brush fire at Mayaba, on the main island of Tortola, on April 18 and 19, 2019. Photo: Team of Reporters

Some of the firefighters that successfully tackled the blaze at Mayaba on April 18 and 19, 2019. Photo: Team of Reporters

Chief Fire Officer Zebalon A. McLean said the fire was rapidly advancing towards nearby houses. Photo: VINO/File

Persons living in the vicinity of the fire were also ordered to evacuate their homes.

According to reports reaching Virgin Islands News Online, it took firefighters close to three hours to extinguish the blaze.

“The problematic aspect was the houses it was rapidly advancing towards,” Chief Fire Officer Zebalon A. McLean told our newsroom this morning, April 19, 2019.

Mr McLean said his department was alerted of the fire at 21:47pm. Firefighters then managed to control the fire from spreading around 23:23pm before finally putting it out around 01:48am.

Representative for the Second District, under which Myaba falls, Honourable Melvin M. Turnbull (R2) was also reportedly on the scene of the brush fire.

Meanwhile, Mr Mclean has issued a public appeal for all persons to desist from lighting fires outdoor during this dry season.

Present conditions can make brush fires progressively worse- VI Fire & Rescure & DDM

The Virgin Islands Fire and Rescue Services and Department of Disaster Management (DDM) have since issued a joint message on brush fires.

See message below:

"Brush fires can present a serious threat to lives and property. High winds, warmer temperatures and drought conditions which we are currently experiencing make fire seasons progressively worse.

To prevent the spread of fires started to burn brush and debris, keep in mind the following precautions:

1. Check for local restrictions by the VI Fire and Rescue Service before conducting any open burning.

2. Keep fire well away from all buildings.

3. Never use gasoline, kerosene or any other flammable liquid to start the fire.

4. Do not leave a fire unattended.

5. Have fire extinguishment materials on hand, including a water supply, shovels and rakes.

6. Be prepared to extinguish your fire if the winds pick up.

DO NOT delay a call for help – call the fire department immediately at the first sign of the fire getting out of control."