London Fire Brigade is warning local people to be vigilant during spells of warm dry weather, as the last few summers have seen a number of grass fires across the Capital.
Most grass fires are either started deliberately or through careless behaviour. Many are caused by discarded cigarettes or glass bottles which can concentrate the sun’s rays on to dry grass and shrubbery. Cigarettes thrown from a car window can also ignite dry grass verges.
London Fire Brigade's Head of Community Safety Paul Oughton said: “Grass fires are both time consuming and difficult for firefighters to deal with. They spread quickly, killing plants and wildlife and putting nearby properties at risk. We want Londoners to take extra care when enjoying the city’s parks and open spaces and ensure they are safe for all of us.”
People can reduce the risk of grass fires and make their summer safer by following a few simple rules:
•Don't leave camp fires or barbeques unattended and extinguish them properly after you have finished using them.
•Clear away bottles, glasses and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire.
•Dispose of cigarettes/cigars properly and make sure they are completely extinguished.
•Talk to young people about the dangers of playing with and lighting fires.
•If you see a fire, don't attempt to put it out yourself as grass fires can travel very quickly and change direction without warning. Call the Fire Brigade, and if you can, stay around so that you can direct firefighters to the scene - but only if it is safe to do so.
Note to editors:
The Brigade is offering all London residents a free home fire safety visit. Firefighters visit homes, talk to you about fire risks and fit free smoke alarms if they are needed. Call 08000 28 44 28 to arrange a home fire safety visit.
Members of the media can obtain further information from the press office on:
telephone number: 020 8536 5922
email: press@london-fire.gov.uk
