AS WARMER weather arrives, fire crews are urging residents to think twice before lighting garden bonfires, warning they can quickly spiral out of control if not handled safely.
Wilton Fire Station says bonfires become increasingly common in spring and summer as people tackle garden clear-outs, but with that comes a rise in avoidable incidents.
Firefighters are encouraging people to consider safer alternatives, such as taking garden waste to a local recycling centre, rather than burning it at home.
Where bonfires are unavoidable, crews are stressing the importance of taking simple precautions to reduce the risk of fire spreading.
Bonfires should always be positioned well away from buildings, fences, trees and sheds, as even a small fire can rapidly spread if it catches nearby materials.
Having a garden hose or water supply ready is also essential, allowing people to react quickly if flames begin to get out of hand.
Weather conditions can play a major role too. Lighting a bonfire on a windy day can cause flames and embers to travel unpredictably, increasing the danger to neighbouring properties and outdoor spaces.
Fire crews are also reminding residents to be considerate to those living nearby.
Smoke can cause disruption and concern, particularly for vulnerable neighbours, so giving advance notice of any planned bonfire is strongly advised.
Crucially, people are warned never to use flammable liquids such as petrol or paraffin to start a fire – a practice that can lead to sudden and dangerous flare-ups.
The message from firefighters is clear: while bonfires may seem like a simple solution for garden waste, they carry real risks if not managed properly.
With longer, drier days ahead, crews are urging the public to stay vigilant and put safety first.
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