Londoners have been urged to create firebreaks around their gardens as firefighters warn of an “extreme” wildfire threat following a series of major blazes across the capital.
The warning comes after around 125 firefighters battled a huge fire in Walthamstow, where flames spread from a railway embankment into around 30 gardens, damaging properties.
London Fire Brigade (LFB) said dry grass, shrubs and garden structures could allow fires to spread rapidly during the current heatwave.
Assistant Commissioner Tom Goodall urged residents to cut grass short, clear dead leaves and move sheds or garden furniture away from homes.
He said: “As these very warm and dry conditions continue, we encourage all landowners, including households, to take any precautionary measures they can to protect properties in the event of a fire.”
Fire chiefs advised households to create a 2–3 metre cleared area around homes, reduce vegetation and keep gardens watered where possible.
The alert follows thousands of emergency calls to London Fire Brigade over the weekend, with crews also tackling fires in Stratford, Orpington and south Croydon.
Experts have warned that parts of southern England face an “exceptional” wildfire risk as hot, dry weather continues.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan urged residents to follow fire safety guidance, warning that everyone has a role to play in preventing dangerous blazes.
Officials say that with the ground becoming increasingly dry, even small fires could quickly become major incidents.
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