Firefighters across London attended three separate grass fires on 22 July.
In Feltham, around 40 firefighters and six fire engines spent over five hours working to bring a grass fire under control. Crews deployed one of the Brigade's Terrain Support Vehicles 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. Six hectares of heathland were damaged by the fire.
Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters spent just under two hours tackling a fire on Ingerbourne Hill, Rainham. Around two hectares of grassland was destroyed by the fire.
In Hayes, four fire engines and around 25 firefighters responded to a grass fire off Cranford Lane. Crews worked for for three hours and 40 minutes to bring the fire under control, with damage limited to a hectare of grass.
Keeping London's green spaces safe
If you’re planning to enjoy the weather over the coming days either in a park or other open spaces, please don’t take a disposable BBQ with you. They pose a significant fire risk as the heat can be retained for many hours, even after a barbecue has been put out. It’s also important to make sure that smoking materials are discarded of properly and either dispose of your rubbish in the appropriate bins or take it home with you if none are available.
For those having a BBQ at home, avoid doing so on a balcony and ensure your BBQ is away from flammable materials like fences and sheds. You should also avoid setting up your BBQ on any decking you may have in your garden.