A major UK city has been put under a “severe” fire warning as Britain’s heatwave continues. London’s fire chief issued the warning for the capital, which could soar to 33C today according to the Met Office.
Thomas Goodall said high temperatures and low rainfall have created a severe risk in the capital, and that London is particularly at risk because homes lie so close to green spaces. He warned: “London is already facing its second heatwave of the year and we know that people will be looking forward to getting outside to enjoy the wonderful weather. But the high temperatures and low rainfall in recent months means the current risk of wildfires is severe.”
He advised: “During this latest heatwave, it is important everyone acts responsibly to prevent fires from occurring. As the weather has been so dry, it only takes a few sparks to lead to a fire spreading rapidly.
“In London, this can be dangerous because so many of our green spaces lie close to homes and other properties.”
The fire chief noted firefighters have already been called out to 14 wildfires so far this year. He warned against using disposable barbeques and barbeques on balconies, to discard cigarettes properly, and to take rubbish home.
He advised: “If you’re heading out, please don’t take a disposable BBQ with you. They can retain heat for several hours after use and are banned by local authorities from many of London’s parks.”
Goodall added: “Also make sure you are discarding of smoking materials properly and take rubbish home with you if no bins are available.
“At home, make sure your BBQ is positioned away from flammable items like fences, sheds, decking and trees, and please don’t have any type of BBQ on your balcony.
“We’re also strongly advising people to avoid burning any waste in this type of weather and to not have bonfires, particularly in their gardens.”
The fire chief added that there have been “countless callouts” to smaller fires involving grass, trees and gardens.
