Barnet Residents Warned Over Garden Fire Risk

London Fire Brigade (LFB) is urging residents across the borough to exercise extreme caution and refrain from starting fires in their gardens. This warning comes as the capital braces for a significant temperature increase, with forecasts predicting a peak of 34C on Wednesday. The prolonged dry spell has created a heightened risk of fires spreading rapidly, particularly in outdoor spaces.

Increased Fire Incidents and Heat Alert

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The LFB has already seen a substantial number of incidents, with crews attending 1,345 calls over the past weekend. This surge in activity underscores the current fire danger. Adding to the concern, the UK Health Security Agency has issued an amber heat-health alert for London, effective from Tuesday to Thursday. This alert signifies that rising temperatures could pose a risk to health, especially for vulnerable individuals.

Advice for Garden Safety

Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall of the London Fire Brigade highlighted the increased danger posed by the dry weather. He explained that the risk of grass fires spreading quickly is greater under current conditions. The brigade is particularly concerned about fires starting in gardens, potentially from poorly managed barbecues. Residents are advised to ensure barbecues are kept away from flammable materials such as dry vegetation, fences, or sheds, and to avoid placing them on decking.

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The brigade also advises against using barbecues in parks or open spaces, or on balconies. The advice follows a recent major fire in Walthamstow that caused significant damage to homes and gardens, demonstrating the potential severity of such incidents.

Wider Impact of Dry Weather

The dry weather has also impacted green spaces across London. Royal Parks have noted that areas have become like 'tinderboxes'. As a precautionary measure, staff have been advised not to leave deckchairs under trees, due to the risk of branches falling, a phenomenon known as 'summer branch drop' which can occur when trees are stressed by prolonged heat and dry conditions.