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Firefighters in Burnham have extinguished a bonfire that spread to a nearby field and hedgerow after being left unattended, prompting fresh warnings about fire safety.
Crews from Burnham and Corringham responded to the blaze, using a water bowser and off-road vehicle to bring the fire under control before it could cause further damage.
No injuries were reported, but firefighters have reminded residents of the dangers of poorly managed outdoor fires — especially in dry summer conditions.
Safety Advice from Essex Fire and Rescue
The Essex County Fire and Rescue Service (ECFRS) has urged the public to follow key safety guidelines when managing bonfires:
Keep bonfires at least 18 metres (60ft) away from homes, fences, sheds, trees, and hedges
Always have a water source nearby, such as a bucket or garden hose
Never leave a bonfire unattended and ensure it is fully extinguished before leaving the area
A spokesperson said:
“Unattended fires can spread quickly, particularly in dry, grassy areas. We’re asking everyone to stay alert and take basic precautions to avoid unnecessary emergencies.”
Could You Be an On-Call Firefighter?
The Burnham firefighters who tackled this fire are on-call firefighters — local residents or workers who respond to emergencies when needed.
If you live or work within five minutes of an on-call fire station, you could join the team and get paid to protect your community.
Search ‘Join Essex Fire’ online to learn more about becoming an on-call firefighter.
