A wildfire has torn through Hornchurch Country Park on Friday evening. London Fire Brigade (LFB) has confirmed that fourteen fire engines and around 90 firefighters are responding to the blaze, which is producing a significant amount of smoke. Crews are working to extinguish multiple seats of fire, and local residents should keep doors and windows closed where possible.
Crews from surrounding stations respond
The Brigade has confirmed that crews from Romford, Ilford, Hornchurch and surrounding fire stations have been sent to the scene. It comes as many of London’s parks have been turned into “tinderbox” parched lands amid a record-setting hot and dry summer.
Officials urge precautions
Sir Sadiq Khan has urged Londoners to create fire breaks in their gardens to protect their homes, while LFB has also warned of the dangers that major blazes could start in people’s gardens. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged retailers to withdraw disposable barbecues from sale in an effort to prevent wildfires as the heatwave continues.
Wildfire numbers match last year's record
More than 1,000 wildfires have been recorded in England and Wales this year, according to data shared by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC), the same as last year’s record-breaking total.
