Major incident declared after large number of fires in London
London Fire Brigade have declared a major incident
London Fire Brigade have declared a major incident due to the number of fires they're fighting in London.
They are fighting a number of fires caused by the 40c heatwave today.
Around one hundred firefighters tackled a huge blaze in the village of Wennington, east London, on Tuesday afternoon.
Assistant Commissioner for Operational Resilience and Control, Patrick Goulbourne, said: “The Brigade remains ready to respond to incidents, however we want to ensure our resources are available for people who really need our help.
“If you see a fire smouldering, please don’t hesitate to call us. The sooner we know about a fire, the sooner we can bring it under control and prevent it from spreading further, reducing the need for us to mobilise additional resources.
“We are also strongly urging people not to have barbecues or bonfires today, as the ground is incredibly dry, which means even the smallest sparks could cause a fire.
“Please take care during the heatwave as all emergency services are facing unprecedented challenges.”
In addition to several other grass and building fires earlier today, firefighters currently dealing with significant fires across London including:
- Thirty fire engines dealing with a grass fire on Pea Lane in Upminster.
- Fifteen fire engines tackling a fire on The Green in Wennington.
- Twelve fire engines tackling a fire involving garden fencing and trees on Uxbridge Road in Pinner.
- Ten fire engines tackling a restaurant fire on Green Lanes in Southgate.
- Eight fire engines tackling a grass fire on Oaks Road in Croydon.
- Eight fire engines tackling a grass fire on Ballards Road in Dagenham.
- Eight fire engines tackling a fire on The Broadway in Wembley.
- Six fire engines tackling a grass fire on Sunningfields Crescent in Hendon.
- Four fire engines tackling a grass fire on Chapel View in Croydon.
- Four fire engines tackling a fire on Sidcup Road in Eltham.
How to stay safe in hot weather
Look out for the vulnerable
Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people, those with underlying conditions and those who live alone are particularly at risk.
Close curtains
Stay cool indoors by closing curtains on rooms that face the sun – and remember that it may be cooler outdoors than indoors.
Avoid excess alcohol
Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol.
Never leave children or pets in locked car
Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.
Check equipment’s work properly
Check that fridges, freezers and fans are working properly.
Stay in doors at peak sun hours
Try to keep out of the sun between 11am to 3pm, when the UV rays are strongest.
Stay in shade
Walk in the shade, apply sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat, if you have to go out in the heat.
Take breaks
Avoid physical exertion in the hottest parts of the day.
Always have water
Make sure you take water with you if you are travelling.
Follow safety advice
Take care and make sure to follow local safety advice if you are going into the water to cool down.
Check medicines
Check medicines can be stored according to the instructions on the packaging.