Leighton Buzzard garden blaze prompts warm weather safety advice from fire service

Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service is reminding people to be extra careful in the warm weather after attending a garden fire in Leighton Buzzard yesterday (Sunday).

Firefighters were called just before 1.30pm to reports of a shed fire on Condor Drive. One crew from Leighton Buzzard attended.

A spokesperson for Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service said: "Two sheds and approximately 20 metres of fencing and garden furniture were damaged by the fire.

"Crews extinguished the fire and delivered fire safety guidance to residents."

The cause is believed to have started in an unattended fire pit which was used earlier but believed out by occupier. This ignited setting the shed on fire. Subsequently, this spread quickly to neighbouring sheds and fencing.

Whilst the sun shines, it is perfect BBQ weather, but the fire service is reminding people to be careful.

The fire service has issued the following advice:

- Keep a bucket of sand, water or better still a garden hose nearby in case of an emergency.

- If you are using a disposable BBQ, follow all the safety instructions that come with it.

- Never use petrol or paraffin to relight a BBQ. Only use recognised starter fuels on coal.

- Make sure your BBQ is well away from sheds, fences, trees, grass or anything else that is combustible.

- Ashes can remain hot for a long time. Ensure they are cool before disposing of them. Soak with water if you are putting them in wheelie bins, or empty onto bare ground if they could still be warm.

- Never leave BBQs or outdoor fires unattended.

- Never use BBQ's indoors and don't bring them in to covered areas, especially if you are camping. They continue to give off fumes for many hours and can put you at risk of carbon monoxide poisoning.

For more information and fire safety advice, visit: www.bedsfire.gov.uk/Community-safety.