Five fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a grass fire on Neasden Recreation Ground near the A406 North Circular this afternoon.
The fire affected around two hectares of grass – the size of around two football pitches.
Station Manager Jerome Kumedzina who is at the scene said: “There was quite a large area alight but crews worked hard to stop the fire from spreading further and used water backpacks and beaters to put out the fire.”
The Brigade was called at 1553 and the fire was under control by 1737, though firefighters will remain at the scene for some time damping down. Crews from Park Royal, Wembley, Hendon and West Hampstead fire stations attended the incident. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Station Manager Kumedzina urged the public to take extra care on grassland during the dry summer months
He added: “Grass can go up like a tinder box in dry conditions. The main causes of accidental grass fires are barbecues, cigarettes, discarded matches and glass bottles, which, when left on dry grass can concentrate the sun’s rays and cause fires.
"We’re particularly concerned about drivers who throw lit cigarettes out of car windows as dry grass verges can easily go up in flames so always make sure you dispose of cigarettes properly.”
The Brigade advises that if you see a grass fire, you shouldn’t attempt to put it out yourself as they can travel very quickly and change direction without warning. You should call 999 immediately and tell the Brigade where the fire is.