UK wildfires: Fire service calls on councils to cut fire risk

Image: Wennington Fire 2022 [via London Fire Brigade]

London Fire Brigade calls for action on wildfire prevention

London Fire Brigade has urged local councils and landowners across the capital to introduce fire breaks to reduce the growing risk of wildfires.

The request follows one of the driest springs on record and warnings of a potentially hot summer, conditions that increase the likelihood of grass fires.

According to the Brigade, many of London’s green spaces border homes and businesses, making prevention critical.

Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley has written to local authority chief executives encouraging them to help protect residents by preparing for high-risk weather.

The Brigade said recommended actions include cutting and clearing dry grass or creating fire breaks near residential areas.

Fire breaks recommended to stop fire spread

The Brigade said that fire breaks act as barriers to the spread of fire by removing flammable materials such as long dry grass.

These may involve cutting grass or ploughing earth to stop fire reaching homes and infrastructure.

Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley said: “Extended periods of hot and dry weather can greatly increase the risk of a grass fire and particularly when that grass is tinder dry, the spread of fire can be rapid.

“We have seen examples of this in London as well as more recently worldwide, such as in California and South Korea.

“The rapid spread can be particularly worrying if it is in the direction of homes and livelihoods so it is vital we all do what we can to protect those areas ahead of periods of hot and dry weather.

“Last month, I wrote to the chief executives of each London local authority, outlining some key measures they can take, such as to create fire breaks, and to welcome the work that councils are already undertaking.

“We have made improvements to how we plan, train and respond to grass fires but we hope the actions we’re asking local authorities and landowners to take will help minimise impact and disruption, particularly in light of the weather conditions we have been seeing and what we might see over the coming months.”

Weather data linked to rising risk

The Met Office has confirmed that England experienced its driest spring in over a century, mirroring the conditions prior to the 2022 wildfires in London.

In July 2022, temperatures in the capital exceeded 40 degrees Celsius for the first time on record.

The London Fire Brigade reported that between 0800 on 19 July and 0630 on 20 July, it handled nearly 2,500 emergency calls and attended about 100 fires, 59 of which were grass fires.

The Met Office has also stated that further heatwaves are likely over the coming months. The Brigade said that taking action now could help mitigate the impact of these conditions.

City of London Corporation highlights shared responsibility

James St John Davis, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Natural Environment Board, said: “As custodians of some of London’s most iconic open spaces, we manage complex landscapes that are often right next to people’s homes – where the threat of wildfire is very real.

“We reduce risk through seasonal grass cutting, natural fire breaks, and widespread staff training to respond swiftly – often before emergency crews arrive. This year we’ve also invested in three new fire fogging units to tackle contained fires, such as those caused by barbecues.

“But prevention is everyone’s responsibility – even a single glass bottle or cigarette butt can spark a serious blaze. Our teams are proud to work with London Fire Brigade to help protect people, property, and precious habitats.”

The City of London Corporation oversees over 11,000 acres of green space across London and southeast England, including sites of environmental importance and public parks.

Advice for the public and property owners

London Fire Brigade said individual action can help prevent grass fires.

Advice includes avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in parks, properly disposing of cigarettes, and taking rubbish home if bins are not available.

The Brigade added that overgrown gardens can present additional fire hazards and should be maintained during hot, dry weather.

Its officers and firefighters are providing public advice and working directly with local communities to reduce risks.

Wildfires: Fire service calls on councils to cut fire risk: Summary

London Fire Brigade has warned of increased wildfire risks due to record dry spring conditions and forecasts of high summer temperatures.

Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley has written to council chief executives urging them to create fire breaks in green spaces bordering homes.

The Met Office confirmed that England experienced its driest spring in over 100 years.

In 2022, extreme heat in London led to major grass fires and property damage.

The City of London Corporation said it has invested in new fire suppression equipment and is working with the Brigade to reduce risks.

Residents are being advised to avoid using disposable barbecues and to properly dispose of cigarettes.

Firefighters are also engaging with communities to provide guidance on wildfire prevention.

All information in this article was sourced from London Fire Brigade.