Grass fire - Wanstead

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to reports of grass alight on Centre Road in Wanstead. 

Around one hectare of grass and shrubland was damaged by fire. There were no reports of any injuries. 

The Brigade's 999 Control Officers took 27 calls to the fire.

A London Fire Brigade spokesperson said: "London has had some incredibly hot days over the last week, which means the ground is extremely dry. Grassland and parks will burn quickly when exposed to even the smallest of sparks.

"If you see a grass fire, don't attempt to put it out yourself as grass fires can travel very quickly and change direction without warning. Call 999 and let us know where the fire is."

Brigade top tips on grass fires:

•  Avoid having barbecues in parks, public spaces and balconies.
• 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- don’t drop cigarettes on dry ground and don’t drop them out of car windows, as they may land on dry grass and lead to a fire.
• Disposable barbecues that have been discarded and abandoned can still end up causing a fire as they will continue to retain heat after use – they need to be put right out and cooled before being thrown away.
• Do not barbecue on balconies, the wind can carry smouldering ash onto nearby grassland.

The Brigade was called at 1219 and the fire was under control by 1624. Fire crews from Leytonstone, Plaistow and Ilford fire stations attended the scene. 

The cause of the fire is under investigation.