Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters responded to a grass fire near Shrapnel Close in Woolwich.
Around five hectares of grass and shrublands were alight at the height of the incident.
Station Commander Craig Fenner, who was at the scene, said: "Firefighters worked incredibly hard to contain the fire and prevent it from spreading further to nearby properties.
"The smell of smoke is drifting north-east from Shooters Hill due to the wind. People living or working in the area are advised to keep their windows and doors closed where possible."
Crews used backpack blowers, which work just like leaf blowers. They allow firefighters to push flames back into already burnt areas. This is a tactic that provides a faster, more efficient attack on wildfires. Wildfire beaters were also used. The beater is made of a long handle with a flat piece of rubber at the end. They’re used to beat the flames, which deprives them of oxygen and cools them down.
Assistant Commissioner for Operational Resilience and Control Patrick Goulbourne said: “In these dry conditions, it only takes a spark to start a grass fire and they can spread rapidly, quickly threatening homes, workplaces, infrastructure and the environment.
"If you're heading to a park or open space to enjoy the sunshine, please don't take a disposable barbecue with you. Even after they have been extinguished, they can retain heat for many hours and pose a serious fire risk. Please also dispose of smoking materials responsibly and either use the bins provided or take your litter home if there are none available.
"If you're having a barbecue at home, keep it well away from fences, sheds, trees and anything else that could catch fire. You can also help protect your home by clearing away dry vegetation and garden waste and keeping combustible materials away from buildings. Small actions like these can make a big difference in reducing the risk of fire and keeping your community safe."
The Brigade's Control Officers took the first of nearly 40 calls to the fire at 1127 and sent fire crews from East Greenwich, Eltham, Plumstead, Greenwich and surrounding fire stations to the scene. Firefighters were able to bring the fire under control by 1307.
The cause of the fire is under investigation.
What to do if you discover a wildfire
- Make sure you're in a safe place (away from vegetation and smoke). Stay calm and call 999 immediately.
- If you're in your car, close all windows and vents.
- When you call 999 be as precise as you can about the location, the size and any other information. The free what3words app can help you pinpoint your location, so download it now.
- Don't try to tackle the fire yourself.
- Stay well away from wildfires as fire can smoulder or spread underground.
How to prevent grass fires
- Don't have barbecues (including disposable ones) in parks, public spaces or on balconies. Take a picnic instead.
- Never leave barbecues unattended and put them out properly after you’ve finished using them.
- Take extra care to ensure cigarettes are put right out and disposed of safely.
- Glass bottles and other clear materials can start fires if left in direct sunlight. Make sure you don’t leave any glass bottles lying around in parks and open spaces. Take your litter home with you if nearby bins are full.