London’s fire authority is urging city residents to clear their gardens this season as a safeguard against potentially devastating grass blazes during the summer period.
The request comes amid predictions of warmer, more arid weather in the weeks ahead, which increase the chances of wildfires ignited by dried-out plant life, accumulated garden waste, and unmanaged vegetation.
In the previous year, the metropolis recorded 122 wildfires by August—double the figure from 2023 and the highest tally since the extreme heat of 2022.
The bulk of these occurrences unfolded in outer areas of the capital, where neighbourhoods situated along the city fringe suffered over three times the quantity of grass fires relative to central boroughs.
Assistant commissioner Spencer Sutcliff explained that as summer approaches, the service is evaluating prevention strategies and exploring how the public can contribute to reducing grass fire hazards during the season. He noted that extended periods of heat and drought significantly elevate grass fire risks, particularly when vegetation becomes completely desiccated, enabling flames to spread rapidly. This becomes especially concerning when homes and commercial premises are endangered, which is why adopting preventative steps is vital.
Figures spanning 2022 to 2025 indicate outer London boroughs logged in excess of 6,000 grass fires, whereas inner London reported under 1,800.
Havering recorded the greatest number with 536 events, with Bexley close behind at 494, followed by Bromley at 462, Hillingdon at 419, and Enfield at 404.
The service is recommending that homeowners, council bodies, and landlords eliminate dried plant material and garden refuse.
Creating fire breaks—stripped areas of land that obstruct or stop fire movement—constitutes an effective protective approach.
Mr Sutcliff observed that spring tidying serves dual purposes: it preserves attractive gardens and public spaces while bolstering community wellbeing. He explained that grass fires can traverse parks and open terrain towards neighbouring houses. Establishing fire breaks, removing dry waste, and storing refuse securely assists in protecting property, localities, and wildlife. Garden refuse should be kept in enclosed heaps and disposed of regularly and correctly. It should be prevented from drying out near buildings, fences, or paths. These small measures go a long way towards preserving community safety.
During June, crews in Feltham employed fire breaks to subdue a grass fire on Wigley Road before it spread to neighbouring homes. London Fire Brigade also warned that barbecues, bonfires, and outdoor heating equipment pose extra dangers during hot spells when deployed near parched grass or vegetation.