Essex Fire issue another warning after bonfire spreads across gardens

Seven fire crews were called to the scene in Wickford earlier today

Flames spread from bonfire embers earlier today
Author: Matt SoanesPublished 22nd Aug 2022
Last updated 22nd Aug 2022

Essex firefighters have again cautioned against having bonfires or BBQs, after embers caused a blaze which ripped through seven gardens earlier today.

Crews were called to Hereward Gardens at 11:56am where a number of fences panels, trees and sheds were on fire.

They managed to contain the blaze and had it out by around 12:45pm.

The local fire service is again urging the public to be extra careful, as the ground remains very dry after weeks of hot conditions.

Station Manager Steve Osborn said: “We’d advise against having bonfires at the moment due to everything still being dry. Although the weather has cooled, everything is still really dry and all it takes is an ember to start a fire that can spread rapidly.

“We’d suggest people hold off on having any open fires until we’ve had more rain including bbqs and campfires/fire pits."

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