Firefighters rushed to tackle a grass and scrub fire on Dagenham Road in London last night (Sunday 30 June) amid soaring temperatures and a severe wildfire risk. The blaze highlights the challenges faced by the capital during its second heatwave of the year.
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) deployed four fire engines and around 25 firefighters to control the fire. The first of 15 emergency calls was received at 7.59pm. Crews from Dagenham, Hornchurch, and Essex County Fire & Rescue worked together to bring the fire under control just before 9pm.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson issued an urgent warning to the public, stating: “London is already facing its second heatwave of the year. High temperatures and low rainfall have pushed wildfire risk to severe levels. It only takes a few sparks to cause a fire to spread rapidly. Many green spaces lie close to homes and properties, putting lives at risk.”
The LFB also shared important safety tips to help prevent wildfires during the heatwave. They advised park-goers and residents to avoid disposable BBQs, which remain hot for hours and are banned in many parks. People are urged not to burn garden waste or start bonfires while conditions are dry. It is essential to fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of litter responsibly.
Additionally, the brigade recommended using BBQs safely at home by keeping them away from fences, trees, sheds, and decking, and warned never to use BBQs on balconies.
This fire on Dagenham Road serves as a stark reminder that dry weather can ignite dangerous blazes in minutes. The London Fire Brigade urges everyone to stay safe and think twice before lighting any fires during this heatwave.
Originally published by UKNIP.
