Firefighters tackled three separate grass fires across London, resulting in nearly four hectares being damaged by fire in one evening.
Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackled a grass fire which damaged around two hectares of marshland near Innova Way in Enfield. The Brigade took the first of nine calls to the fire at 1707 and the fire was under control by 1858.
Near Riverside Road in Bexley, around two acres of trees and shrubland, along with two smaller areas of vegetation measuring approximately 400 square metres each, were damaged by fire. Around 40 firefighters used backpack blowers, which work just like leaf blowers, to tackle the fire. 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.
One of the Brigade's Terrain Support Vehicles was sent to the scene to support firefighting operations. The vehicle provides off-road capability enabling the transportation of additional equipment closer to fires on open ground. Each vehicle carries approximately 475 litres of water, a backpack blower, ear defenders, beaters and misting lance technology, which allows firefighters to pump water and drive, enabling them to tackle grass fires more quickly and safely.
The Brigade's Control Officers took the first of 15 calls to the fire at 2020 and the fire was under control by 2222.
Near Slade Green Road in Erith, around one hectare of grassland was alight. The first of nine calls was received at 0116 and the fire was under control by 0214.
Assistant Commissioner Pam Oparaocha said: "Throughout this period of hot weather, we are continually monitoring demand and deploying our resources where they are needed most so that we're ready to respond to emergencies across London. Our specialist Terrain Support Vehicles are prepared to tackle grass and wildfire incidents, while our water rescue teams remain ready to respond to emergencies across London's 370-miles of waterways.
"While we are fully prepared to respond, we need everyone to play their part in helping to prevent incidents. Wildfires in particular can spread rapidly, require significant resources and have devastating consequences for people, properties, wildlife and the environment. Wildfires can also have a lasting impact on the health of Londoners because of the smoke plumes that they produce.
"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, never use one on a balcony. Position it well away from fences, sheds and other combustible materials, and avoid placing it on wooden decking."