Bonfire Blast: Firefighters Warn of Spike in 999 Calls as Warm Weather Hits Kent
With sunny skies on the horizon, Kent’s fire crews are urging locals to enjoy bonfires and barbecues safely. They’ve seen a sharp rise in bonfire-related 999 calls this week—far more than in previous years.
Why The Rise in Bonfire Blazes?
The surge is linked to more people staying home thanks to Covid-19 isolation rules. Plus, the closure of household waste sites has pushed many to burn garden rubbish themselves. With warmer temps predicted this weekend, fires in gardens, fire pits, and barbecues are expected to soar.
Fire Chiefs Sound the Alarm
“We’re tracking how Covid-19 isolation is changing the incidents we attend. There’s definitely been more bonfires county-wide, and more people spotting them,” said Lee Rose, Assistant Director for Resilience at Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
“Many callers don’t realise the smoke’s from a controlled burn. If you’re lighting a fire, please tell your neighbours to stop panic calls flooding our 999 lines.”
Top Safety Tips For Bonfires and BBQs
- Keep bonfires well clear of buildings, sheds, fences, hedges, and low branches.
- Build manageable fires that burn inward, avoiding it toppling unexpectedly.
- Always have a bucket of water or hosepipe ready for emergencies.
- Never leave bonfires unattended and fully douse the fire when done.
- Barbecues must be kept away from fences, foliage, and buildings—radiated heat can start fires even without flames.
If your fire gets out of control or sets nearby property ablaze, call 999 immediately.
Stay Home, Stay Safe
Fire bosses remind everyone to stay local and avoid travelling to parks, coastal, or country areas to enjoy the warm weather. Keep it safe, keep it controlled—before the flames get out of hand.
