11/06/2015

LFB Issue Warning On Grass Fires

London Fire Brigade have issued a grass fires warning following a fire at Eastbrookend Country Park in Dagenham.

Some 35 firefighters were needed to tackle the fire, said to have been the size of two football pitches.

An LFB spokesperson said: "Grass fires can easily be prevented if people just take extra care. A small spark from a cigarette is often all it takes to start a grass fire in these dry conditions so it really is important that smokers dispose of their cigarettes properly.

"Drivers also need to take care not to throw cigarettes out of car windows as they can easily burn grass verges. People barbecuing on open land should also make sure that they extinguish them properly when finished with."

The brigade also produced so basic tips on preventing grass fires:

• Never leave camp fires or barbecues unattended and extinguish them properly after you have finished using them

• Clear away bottles, glasses and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire

• Dispose of smoking materials such as cigarettes safely

• Explain to children the dangers of playing with and lighting fires.

(MH/JP)

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