Firefighters responded to two separate grass fires in Romford.
Eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters tackled a grass fire near Southern Way, where around four acres of grassland was damaged by fire. The Brigade's Control Officers took the first of 11 calls to the fire at 1615 and sent crews from Leytonstone, Wennington, Homerton, Bethnal Green and surrounding fire stations to the scene. The fire was brought under control by 1750.
A further eight fire engines and around 60 firefighters also responded to a separate grass fire near Eastern Avenue West, where around 20 acres westbound and another 10 acres eastbound were damaged by fire.
Station Commander Ryan Kerby, who was at the scene of the fire near Eastern Avenue West, said: "Firefighters worked tirelessly in arduous conditions to bring the fire under control and protect nearby properties.
"There was significant traffic disruption in the area due to road closures, and we urged people to avoid the area wherever possible.
"The fire was also producing a large amount of smoke. While we appreciate it's a very hot day, we asked local residents to keep their windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering their homes."
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 first call to the fire near Eastern Avenue West was received at 1714 and crews from Woodford, Whitechapel, Barking, Euston and surrounding fire stations attended the scene. The fire was under control by 1916.
The cause of the fires are under investigation.
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."
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.