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FIRE IN VILLAMARTIN

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Sally Bengtsson / 2010-07-29 10:42:10

A fire between Villamartin and Los Dolses last Monday was brought under contro the following morning.  It started at 5pm, and 15 houses in the area of La Rioja had to be vacated. 

Fortunately the measure was precautionary and none of the homes were damaged.  However, the area of land burnt was 500 square metres of scrubland and pine trees.  Over fifty fire fighters were quick to act, and two hidro-planes were quickly on the scene, dumping water on the flames. 

Over the winter the ditches by the side of the road accumulate a lot of weeds and dead vegetation, which dries in the hot summer sun, and as much as a spark or cigarette end can set it alight within seconds.  Neighbours are demanding these ditches be cleared periodically to avoid future fires.