With a heatwave in London set to continue into the weekend, people are being urged to act responsibly to keep themselves safe and protect communities from fires.

A warning has been issued for the capital for a greater risk of grass fires and wildfires following an assessment from the Natural Hazards Partnership, with the threat of wildfires set to grow further on Friday and Saturday.

Just under half of London is made up of green spaces and the Brigade is urging Londoners to do all they can to prevent fires from starting accidentally. 

London Fire Brigade (LFB) Assistant Commissioner Pat Goulbourne said: "With temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius and the driest spring in over a century[2] the risk of fires spreading rapidly is high. 

"With so many of our open spaces close to homes and livelihoods, it is vital we all play our part to reduce the chance of grass fires breaking out in the first place and to protect our communities from incidents." 

This week, LFB has responded to two grass fires requiring the attendance of at least four fire engines, which both occurred in Rainham on Wednesday.  

One of the most common causes of grass fires in London is BBQs, particularly disposable ones.

Between 2022 and May 2025, LFB has recorded 332 callouts, 17 of which resulted in casualties, where a BBQ was recorded as a cause or contributing factor to a fire. 

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Assistant Commissioner Goulbourne added: "If you're planning to enjoy the weather over the coming days either in a park or other open spaces, please don't take a disposable BBQ with you.

"They pose a significant fire risk as the heat can be retained for many hours, even after a barbecue has been put out. 

"If you're having a BBQ at home, avoid doing so on a balcony and ensure your BBQ is away from flammable materials like fences and sheds. You should also avoid having your BBQ on any decking you may have in your garden.

"It's also important to make sure that smoking materials are discarded of properly and either dispose of your rubbish in the appropriate bins or take it home with you if none are available." 

With the Met Office predicting a greater chance of further heatwaves this summer, the Brigade is also continuing its calls to landowners and local authorities to take action now to help protect communities from wildfires. This includes cutting back or ploughing grass, especially where it lies close to properties.

These fire breaks can help slow down the spread of fire, as well as protecting people and their properties.