Dog walker helps prevent Kent woodland fire after BBQ abandoned
It happened at East Blean Woods in Canterbury
Firefighters are asking people to help reduce the risk of a fire in Kent and Medway this summer by being responsible when enjoying outdoor areas.
The reminder comes from Kent Fire and Rescue Service (KFRS) after a dog walker discovered a fire in East Blean Woods, in Hoath, Canterbury.
It’s believed the fire was caused by a disposable barbecue that had been left unattended while still hot.
Yasimin Djemal was walking her dogs through the woods on 23 June 2025 when she saw the fire spreading near the path.
She said: "I could smell smoke, but I couldn’t see it, and so I wandered for a bit and then I saw it. I was horrified.”
Yasimin made sure she was a safe distance from the fire before calling 999 for the fire service, noting her What3Words location.
She added: "I didn't know what else to do. But they arrived very fast, put out the fire, and reassured me I'd done the right thing.
"We're so lucky to have these woods, and to know someone could just leave a fire like this is gutting. I’m so glad the fire service took care of it.”
One fire engine attended the scene at around 11am, as well as two all-terrain vehicles, and firefighters extinguished the flames using flexi-packs and a fogging unit.
KFRS Crew Manager Dave Turner said: "Thankfully Yasimin came across the fire before it could fully develop, but the outcome could’ve been very different.
“During the summer months, the ground can be extremely hot and dry, which means a fire can spread quickly, causing devastating consequences for wildlife, property and livelihoods.
“Leaving any outdoor flame unattended is dangerous, and items such as disposable barbecues and cigarettes need to be fully cool before being safely disposed of. It’s also important to only barbecue in designated areas.
“We all need to play a part in keeping Kent and Medway safe.”
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