The London Fire Brigade has warned of an increased risk of wildfires across the capital this summer and is calling on councils and landowners to act now by introducing fire breaks in vulnerable areas.
With London experiencing one of its driest springs on record, and forecasts pointing to a hot summer, fire chiefs say action is needed to help protect lives, homes and businesses – especially where green spaces border residential areas.
Fire breaks, which involve clearing grass or vegetation to create a barrier that slows or stops the spread of flames, are being encouraged as a simple but vital prevention tool.
Deputy Commissioner Charlie Pugsley has written to all local authority chief executives across the capital, urging them to make preparations now. He 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.”
The warning comes just two years after wildfires destroyed homes in Wennington during the record-breaking summer heat of 2022. With current conditions mirroring those seen in the run-up to that summer, the Brigade is keen to avoid a repeat.
James St John Davis, Chair of the City of London Corporation’s Natural Environment Board, highlighted the importance of prevention, saying:
“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.”
Residents are also being asked to play their part by avoiding disposable barbecues in parks, disposing of cigarettes properly, taking litter home, and keeping gardens tidy to reduce the fuel available to fires.
The Brigade says it will continue working closely with communities and local authorities to provide advice and support ahead of the peak summer months.
Chris Mitchell is the founder and editor of Harrow Online, Harrow’s leading local news platform.
He launched Harrow Online in 2010 as a Facebook page sharing local news and information. Since then, it has grown into a trusted source for breaking news, crime, council decisions, planning, transport, business and community stories across the borough.
Harrow Online reaches hundreds of thousands of readers each month and has a social media audience of more than 200,000 followers.
For news tips, press releases or enquiries, contact Chris at info@harrowonline.org.
