July has been possibly one of the busiest months Totnes Fire Station has ever experienced, with their crews responding to 45 shouts throughout the month.

That brings the total number of incidents attended so far this year to 139, highlighting just how busy 2026 has been for the station.

Across Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service, July has also been the busiest month the Service has seen in the past 10 years, with firefighters working tirelessly to keep communities safe.

Over the past month, crews have attended a wide range of emergencies, including fires, road traffic collisions (RTCs), rescues, and use of the Incident Command Vehicle supporting incidents both locally and across the service area.

On July 14, teams were mobilised to a fire in the open near the River Dart Country Park, alongside other crews.

On arrival, firefighters were confronted with a rapidly developing fire that had spread across a field, into a hedgerow and a neighbouring field, threatening a stable outbuilding.

The Incident Commander asked for additional resources, including jets to stop the fire's advance and protect the nearby outbuildings.

There was also a fire fought in an adjacent field.

On July 17, there was a multi-agency rescue involving a casualty on the mud flats opposite Longmarsh.

Members of the public provided further information that the casualty was actually on the opposite side of the River Dart.

Crews quickly relocated before making their way on foot via the coastal path to Headcliffe Point and along the foreshore to reach the casualty and begin administering first aid.

Over the past two months, they have also attended a number of community events, including school summer fairs, village fairs, and the Totnes Show.

They always enjoy meeting members of the community, showcasing their equipment, and talking about fire safety.