London's fire service receive highest number of call outs in nine years
The LFB say many calls were related to fireworks
London's Fire Brigade took the highest number of calls outs last night since 2016
831 calls were made on bonfire night with a number of them to do with firework related blazes
The largest was a grass fire in Bromley which needed 25 officers to get under control.
An area of felled wood was destroyed by the fire, but nobody was hurt
The caller reported that the fire started from a large bonfire out of control.
Assistant Commissioner Thomas Goodall said: “Last night, our Control Officers and firefighters worked exceptionally hard, handling an extremely high number of calls and mobilising wherever we were needed across the capital.
“We’re anticipating another busy weekend of celebrations, so we’re continuing to ask Londoners to help us utilise our resources wisely. Our advice is not to host your own celebrations and instead, find an organised display nearby.
“If you are going to host your own display, it’s important to ensure you are buying safe fireworks from a reputable, licensed seller with a CE safety mark. Secure them properly in the ground, and keep them far away from buildings, trees, animals and people.
“Always follow the Fireworks Code and remember there are strict laws around when you can purchase and use fireworks. Never set them off if you’ve been drinking alcohol and once a firework is lit, never go back to it.
“Disposing of fireworks safely is just as important as using them correctly. Allow fireworks to cool properly before throwing them away.
"We’re also urging people to consider if their bonfire is necessary and to take care if you’re burning waste at home.
"If you are going to light a bonfire, never leave it unattended and consider your neighbours when you do decide to have a fire in your garden.
“Make sure you build it well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences and hedges and never use flammable liquids to start it or burn dangerous items such as aerosol cans. Always keep a bucket of water or a hosepipe nearby in case of fire.
“Always check your local authority’s advice on bonfires and follow our safety tips.”
Hear all the latest news from across the UK on the hour, every hour, on Greatest Hits Radio on DAB, smartspeaker, at greatesthitsradio.co.uk, and on the Rayo app.