Lag Ba'Omer caution after last year's Stamford Hill bonfire blazes

Firefighters are reminding Londoners to take extra care when celebrating the Jewish festival, Lag Ba’Omer, following numerous calls to bonfires in the Stamford Hill last year.

Celebrate Lag Ba'Omer safely

With Lag Ba'Omer festivities expected to take place from sunset on 22th May to nightfall on the 23^rd, local crews are asking the community to take extra care and celebrate safely.

Borough Commander for Hackney, Narinder Dail said:

“Last year was busy for local crews as they attended seven reports of bonfires which we believe were lit as part of the festivities. Thankfully, none of the fires spread to cars, or buildings but we are concerned that there could be a more serious fire this evening.

Videos on social media

There were lots of videos on social media which seem to show the fires flashing and exploding which suggests that people may have been using accelerants. Could I urge everyone to take a moment to read our bonfire safety tips and never throw anything like aerosols, batteries or petrol onto a fire. We want the community to celebrate in safety.“

Our bonfire safety tips: 

• Build your bonfire well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges
• Never use flammable liquids to start a bonfire and never burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans, paint tins, foam furniture or batteries
• Don’t leave bonfires unattended. An adult should supervise it until it has burnt out. If it has to be left, damp it down with plenty of water

For more info about bonfire safety visit out bonfire safety page