Warnings issued by fire brigade ahead of another heatwave
With temperatures expected to climb above 30 degrees this week, and the start of the summer holidays, the London Fire Brigade has issued warnings for Londoners to stay safe in the heat. Despite some brief rain over the weekend, “large parts of the capital’s green spaces remain at risk from wildfires,” the brigade said. Prolonged hot weather can dry out grass and woodlands, making them vulnerable to fire.
Ten fire engines and around 70 firefighters tackled a grass fire at Ingrebourne Hill in Havering on Saturday with around 10 hectares of grasslands being damaged by the fire and as many as 35 residents from nearby properties being evacuated as a precaution. Fire crews worked for “just under four hours to bring the fire under the control,” the brigade said.
Anyone planning to enjoy the weather in the coming days, whether in a park or open space, is advised not to bring a disposable barbeque with them, as they, like poorly disposed of cigarettes, pose a “significant fire risk.” The heat from a disposable barbeque can be retained for hours after we think they have been put out safely, and smoking material needs to be discarded of properly. The brigade says to either dispose of it in the appropriate bins or take it home with you if none are available.
The long period of dry weather has also created an increased risk in people’s gardens. Anyone with a barbeque at home is advised to ensure it is away from flammable materials including dry bush, long grass, fences, and sheds. The brigade also advises against setting it up on any decking you may have, adding that anyone with a balcony should never use such decking to set up a barbeque.
As schools break up for the summer holidays, water safety is a “high priority” for the brigade. It is “urging” parents and guardians to inform children about the dangers of open water. This comes following multiple accidental drownings, some of which involved children.
Read more London safety, weather, and community news at EyeOnLondon.
Follow us on:
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for the latest videos and updates!
We value your thoughts! Share your feedback and help us make EyeOnLondon even better!
