A double-decker electric bus was destroyed by a fire at a bus depot in West London on Tuesday evening, as the capital experienced its hottest day ever recorded in June. Four fire engines and 25 firefighters from North Kensington and Paddington fire stations responded to the blaze at the depot on Great Western Road, Westbourne Park.
Firefighters tackle blaze at bus depot
The London Fire Brigade (LFB) was called at 6:23pm and had the incident under control by 7:11pm. When crews arrived, they found a double-decker electric bus engulfed in flames. Two electric vehicle charging points were also destroyed. There were no reports of any injuries.
Smoke from the fire could be seen from nearby train stations and as far away as White City. The cause of the fire is under investigation.
Heatwave increases fire risk
LFB Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: "London is already in the midst of its second heatwave of the year, and we know that the public will want to enjoy this exceptionally hot weather. However, it is important that this is done safely, as during periods of dry and sustained extreme heat, the chance of wildfires spreading rapidly is high."
He added: "The Brigade is ready and prepared to respond to all types of incidents, but we urge everyone to play their part to prevent incidents, such as wildfires, which can be time-consuming to resolve and have devastating impacts on livelihoods, from occurring in the first place."
Public safety warnings
Londoners are also being warned to take extra care when around open water as people rush to cool off in rivers or lakes. With temperatures still in the high thirties and people heading outdoors, the risk of wildfires and water-safety issues increases.
