Crews issue safety advice as bonfire burns out of control

Firefighters tackled a large bonfire in Rayleigh that had burned out of control near a row of conifer trees.

Two crews attended and worked for around two hours to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading.

This incident highlights how quickly a bonfire can pose a serious risk, especially in dry conditions when even a light breeze can cause flames to spread further than expected.

While conditions aren’t as extreme as earlier in the summer, it is still very dry after the long spell without rain. Conifers, trees, hedges and grass can catch fire easily.

Watch Manager, Anthony Wakelin, from Rayleigh Weir fire station, said: “Even though conditions aren’t as hot as earlier in the summer, the ground out there is still very dry.

"Always be mindful of the size of the bonfire you’re putting together and pay attention to wind direction - not just because of your neighbours and local roads, but also due to the surrounding risks like trees and outbuildings.”

If you’re planning a bonfire, please:

If you’re planning a bonfire, please:

🔴 Site the bonfire well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs

🔴 Build the stack so that it is stable and never use flammable liquids to start the fire

🔴 Don’t burn foam-filled furniture, aerosols, tins of paint or bottles

🔴 Avoid building the bonfire too large

🔴 Be considerate of neighbours and remember that smoke can also affect nearby roads

🔴 Check the wind direction before lighting, and avoid lighting in strong winds

By following these steps, you can help prevent incidents like this and keep your community safe.