Fire service issues safety warning after recent bonfire and BBQ fires
Crews called to four weekend incidents in Northamptonshire after fires spread
Northamptonshire Fire and Rescue Service have issued safety advice after attending four fires in Northamptonshire recently caused by bonfires, fire pits and barbecues getting out of control.
The service says one fire in Little Harrowden, shortly before 6.30pm on April 18, was caused by a barbecue being used too close to a hedge, which caught alight. Crews from Wellingborough used two hose‑reel jets to extinguish the fire before it could spread and cause further damage.
As warmer weather approaches and conditions become drier, the fire service is urging people to take extra care when lighting fires outdoors.
Prevention Team Leader, Darren Carson, said many incidents occur when bonfires are neglected and positioned too close to nearby structures or vegetation.
“Sometimes bonfires get out of control because they’re left unattended,” he said. “Another big problem is where they’re sited – too near sheds, fences or trees.
“What can start out as a small bonfire can quickly grow as more material is added, and people also need to consider whether there’s an alternative way of getting rid of waste that doesn’t involve having a bonfire.”
The following safety advice has been issued by the fire service:
- Place the bonfire or barbecue well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs
- Before lighting the fire, check that no pets or children are hiding inside it
- Build bonfires so that it is stable and will not collapse outwards or to one side
- Never use flammable liquids to light the fire
- Don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols, and tines of paint or bottles
- Keep everyone away from the fire – children must be supervised all the time
- For an emergency, keep buckets of water, the garden hose or a fire extinguisher ready
- Pour water on the embers before leaving
Carson said crews expect to see more incidents as the weather improves and people begin lighting barbecues more frequently, adding that fires should always be supervised and used responsibly.
He also warned about the risks posed by disposable barbecues if they are not properly cooled before being thrown away.
“They must be soaked in water and left to cool down for a good period of time,” he said. “We’ve had incidents where disposable barbecues haven’t been left to cool and have then been put in waste bins, which has caused fires.”
Carson added: “The weather’s getting better and people are going to start having barbecues, which is great – but just do it responsibly. Always supervise a barbecue or a bonfire and never leave it unattended.”
To find out more about fire safety including bonfires and BBQ's visit: www.northantsfire.gov.uk
Anyone who sees a fire spreading or becoming unsafe should call 999 immediately.