Beware fire risk as summer hots up

THE LONDON FIRE Brigade has warned everyone to take care when holding a barbecue outdoors – or when discarding cigarettes.

Last year London endured a spate of grass fires as the grass dried out and residents forgot how easily it could catch fire and how quickly a grass fire can spread in dry conditions.

The barbecue itself is not the only danger. Even discarded bottles can magnify the sun’s rays and set fire to dry grass – so it’s important to clear up thoroughly after any outdoor festivities.

It’s really not a small problem. Last year firefighters attended 3,160 grass fires in the capital. Only 60 of these were significant fires (needing three fire engines or more) – but even the smaller ones took firefighters out of their stations so they were not available for any larger emergencies that might occur.

Seven of the grass fires turned into major conflagrations, needing ten or more fire engines to come out and deal with them. One fire on Wanstead Flats took 200 firefighters more than four days to put out.

In an attempt to reduce the risk of grass fires last summer, the London Fire Commissioner Dany Cotton asked Councils to ban barbecues from public parks. The move will be repeated this year if it proves necessary.

Commissioner Cotton explained, “We’re not trying to spoil people’s fun, but lives were put at risk during the heatwave last year by reckless and thoughtless behaviour. Grass fires are often avoidable and we just want people to use common sense when they are out enjoying the glorious weather we’ve been promised. Also think about the safety of our crews who last year tackled dozens of unnecessary blazes in sweltering temperatures.”

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