Four fire engines and 21 firefighters and officers dealt with a grass fire on recreation ground in Dagenham Road, Rainham.
Shrubland the size of three football pitches was alight.
A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "During the hot weather we are attending a large number of grass fires across London.
"We’re asking the public to take care not to drop cigarettes or matches on dry grass and to keep a very close eye on barbecues.
"Dropped glass can also start fires as the sun can magnify the sun’s rays.
"Grass fires can quickly spread and cause serious damage, so if you see grass smouldering, please call 999 immediately.”
• Never leave camp fires or barbecues unattended and extinguish them properly after you have finished using them
• Clear away bottles, glasses and any broken glass to avoid them magnifying the sun and starting a fire
• Dispose of smoking materials such as cigarettes safely
• Explain to children the dangers of playing with and lighting fires
The Brigade was called at 1350 and the fire was under control by 1448. Fire crews from Hornchurch, Romford, Wennington and Barking fire stations attended the scene.