Handing control back to a responsible organisation once a fire is contained (not extinguished but mitigated) reflects established and appropriate practice. It enables fire and rescue service resources to be released for other emergencies and prevention activity, while maintaining proportionate oversight through agreed triggers.

In this instance, clear triggers were put in place, most notably that any breach of the control line would prompt re-engagement via a 999 call. This reflected a risk-based approach aligned to the conditions and information available at the time.

The fire remained within established firebreaks and was subject to ongoing monitoring by Forestry England. NYFRS attendances on 9 and 10 July confirmed containment, and subsequent reports of smoke were managed in line with the agreed handover  arrangements, with Forestry England undertaking site assessments

On 11 August, following further reports of smoke, Forestry England attended and confirmed earlier in the day that the fire remained within the firebreaks, with no requirement for NYFRS intervention. However, later that evening, a crew from Goathland, whilst passing enroute to another incident, identified significant smoke and confirmed that the fire had breached the control line.

Fire investigation findings confirmed that the fire involved both surface and subsurface peat spread. This type of fire behaviour is inherently difficult to detect, can persist below ground, and may re-emerge beyond visible fire edges.

Responsibility for the forestry sector was again handed back to Forestry England on  12 September 2025, once the fire was assessed as contained. This followed a phased approach, with initial on scene support provided by NYFRS, which was subsequently scaled back and transitioned to monitoring through reports received by Fire Control.

What Worked Well
• Clear and appropriate handover arrangements aligned to established practice
• Defined triggers for re-engagement, including breach of control lines via 999 activation
• Effective partnership working with Forestry England to support ongoing monitoring
• Early confirmation of containment through joint activity and site assessments
• Demonstrated ability to adapt and strengthen handover arrangements as the incident developed.

Learning Opportunities
• When responsibility is handed back, the receiving organisation should have a shared understanding of its role and responsibilities in the ongoing
management of risk.