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Military set to stand down today as crews battle six South Wales wildfires

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Six major wildfires remain uncontained across South Wales as armed forces personnel prepare to conclude their involvement later today, on August 19.

South Wales Fire and Rescue Service is coordinating the response to six ongoing wildfire incidents, with assistance arriving from fire brigades across the United Kingdom, military units, and various partner organisations.

Active blazes continue to impact communities in Blaenavon, Treherbert, Dowlais, and the Llwyn-on Reservoir area, while crews maintain watch over situations in Wattsville and Cwm in Ebbw Vale.

Armed forces units stationed in Dowlais continue to assist firefighting operations but are anticipated to withdraw later today as their deployment concludes.

A pair of helicopters are still conducting crucial fire suppression and aerial observation duties throughout the affected zones.

Firefighters first arrived on scene on Friday, August 14.

A safety perimeter remains established to safeguard emergency personnel and aircraft operations, prohibiting all unmanned aerial vehicles, including privately owned drones, from the airspace.

Licensed drone pilots are being advised to consult Notices to Airmen through official aviation channels before arranging any flights.

Specialist arson prevention units are conducting patrols throughout the impacted regions, and residents are being urged to notify police of any suspicious activity or intentional fire-setting by calling 101 or contacting Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

The fire service is additionally calling on local residents, landowners, and visitors to help prevent additional wildfires by refraining from using disposable grills, outdoor fire bowls, pyrotechnics, and garden burners, and by keeping drones away from active fire zones.

Those experiencing smoke drift are advised to keep windows and doors sealed, follow instructions from emergency responders and council authorities, and avoid entering restricted areas around the incidents.

A SWFRS representative stated that the service remains grateful to local communities for their ongoing backing and patience as firefighters continue their efforts to bring these situations under control.

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