Unattended bonfire spreads to field
Firefighters have extinguished a bonfire which has was left unattended and spread to a field and hedges in Burnham.
Crews used an off road vehicle and water bowser from Corringham to help extinguish the fire.
Watch Manager Jon Vincent said: "If you're planning on having a bonfire or burning rubbish, please do not leave it unattended; it could quickly get out of control and spread rapidly.
"Make sure it is well away from houses, garages, sheds, fences, overhead cables, trees and shrubs. These fires are dangerous and are easily preventable."
If you’re having a bonfire, remember:
- Bonfires should be at least 18 metres (60ft) away from houses, trees, hedges, fences, and sheds
- Never use petrol or paraffin to light a bonfire
- Only burn dry materials – damp materials will cause excess smoke
- Never put aerosols, batteries, tins of paint or tyres on a fire
- Keep a bucket of water or garden hose nearby
- Do not leave the fire unattended, and make sure it is fully out before heading inside
Could you be an on-call firefighter?
Burnham's firefighters who attended this incident are on-call firefighters; people who live or work in the area and attend an incident when they are called.
If you live or work within 5 minutes of an on-call fire station, you could be paid to protect your community as an on-call firefighter. Find out more at join.essex-fire.gov.uk/on-call
