Around 100 firefighters and 15 fire engines responded to a large grassland fire near Acer Avenue in Rainham, East London, on the evening of Wednesday, July 29. The blaze, which engulfed approximately four hectares of grassland, prompted the London Fire Brigade to issue warnings to local residents.
Fire Response and Control
The first call reporting the fire was received at 7:36pm, and crews managed to bring the blaze under control by 9:56pm. Firefighters from New Cross, West Norwood, Romford, Dockhead, Orpington, Sidcup, and surrounding fire stations attended the scene. The London Fire Brigade reported that crews used wildfire beaters, which are tools consisting of a long handle with a flat rubber end, to beat the flames, depriving them of oxygen and cooling them down.
Public Safety Warnings
Due to smoke produced by the fire, the London Fire Brigade advised local residents to keep windows and doors closed. Drivers passing through smoky areas were instructed to keep windows wound up, close air vents, and switch off air conditioning systems to prevent drawing in outside air. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation.
Wildfire Prevention Advice
The London Fire Brigade issued the following advice for anyone who encounters a wildfire: ensure you are in a safe place away from vegetation and smoke, stay calm, and call 999 immediately. If in a car, close all windows and vents. When calling 999, provide as precise a location as possible, including size and other details; the free what3words app can help pinpoint your location. Do not attempt to tackle the fire yourself and stay well away from wildfires, as fire can smoulder or spread underground.
To prevent grass fires, the brigade recommends: avoid barbecues (including disposable ones) in parks, public spaces, or on balconies—opt for a picnic instead. Never leave barbecues unattended and ensure they are properly extinguished. Take extra care to fully extinguish cigarettes and dispose of them safely. Glass bottles and other clear materials can start fires if left in direct sunlight; do not leave glass bottles lying around in parks and open spaces, and take litter home if bins are full.
Wildfires Across Europe
The East London blaze occurs as wildfires continue to rage across Europe. In southwestern France, approximately 42,000 hectares of land have been devastated, with flames spreading into parts of the Bordeaux metropolitan area. In Greece, three firefighters have died while battling wildfires, with high winds causing blazes to spread across Crete and mainland Greece. In Spain, around 77,000 hectares have been affected by wildfires.
