Weed burner fire spreads to shed and gardens

Firefighters have issued safety advice after a fire started by a weed burner damaged a shed and multiple gardens. 

Crews from Basildon were called to Rantree Fold, Basildon at 12.32pm today. 

The resident had been burning weeds and accidentally started a fire which spread rapidly. Crews arrived within 5 minutes and were able to stop the fire from spreading to any properties.

Watch Manager Rob Fossett said: "The resident was using a weed burner which unfortunately caught a shed alight. Because it is so hot and dry, it quickly spread to neighbouring gardens.

"Crews worked quickly to stop the fire spreading to houses and a nearby park. We’d recommend you avoid using weed burners generally as they often cause fires, especially in dry conditions throughout summer. 

“If you are going to use them, we’d advise you use them carefully and keep water on hand while using them as it only takes an ember in dry conditions to start a fire. Then make sure they are fully cooled down before storing them.”