Firefighters tackle large grass fire in Woolwich

Around 70 firefighters were called to tackle a large grass fire in Woolwich after flames spread across open land on Tuesday morning.

The London Fire Brigade (LFB) said ten fire engines were sent to the incident near Shrapnel Close, with crews arriving after the first of almost 30 emergency calls was received at 11:27am.

At the height of the blaze, around two hectares of grass and shrubland were on fire.

Firefighters from East Greenwich, Eltham, Plumstead, Greenwich and surrounding stations used specialist wildfire equipment to bring the fire under control by 1:07pm.

Crews deployed backpack blowers, which work similarly to leaf blowers by pushing flames back into already burnt areas, allowing for a quicker and more effective attack on the fire. Wildfire beaters – long-handled tools with a flat rubber end – were also used to extinguish the flames by removing their oxygen supply and cooling the fire.

No injuries have been reported.

The cause of the fire is not yet known.

London Fire Brigade issues wildfire safety reminder

Following the incident, the Brigade has reminded people to take extra care in warm, dry weather to help prevent grass fires.

If you discover a wildfire, the LFB advises:

• Move to a safe place away from vegetation and smoke and call 999 immediately.
• If you’re in a vehicle, close all windows and air vents.
• Give the emergency services the most accurate location possible – using the what3words app can help pinpoint your location.
• Never attempt to tackle a wildfire yourself and stay well clear, as fires can spread underground or reignite unexpectedly.

Residents are also being urged to reduce the risk of grass fires by avoiding barbecues in parks, public open spaces and on balconies, ensuring cigarettes are fully extinguished, and taking litter home if bins are full. The Brigade warns that glass bottles and other clear materials left in direct sunlight can also start fires.