Warning over grass fires sparked by cigarettes and barbecues

London Fire Brigade are dealing with 15 grass fires every day in the capital as temperatures soar in the capital.

People in London's parks and grasslands are being warned by firefighters to be vigilant when throwing away cigarettes on dried-out turf.

So far this summer firefighters have been called to 770 incidents.

Unattended barbecues and bottles and glasses magnifying the sun are also fire hazards, the Fire Brigade said.

The London Fire Brigade’s Head of Operations, Prevention and Response Dave Brown said:

“A small spark from a cigarette is often all it takes to start a grass fire in these dry conditions. It really is important that smokers dispose of their cigarettes properly.

"Drivers also need to take care not to throw cigarettes out of car windows as they can easily burn grass verges.

“If you see a grass fire, don't attempt to put it out yourself as grass fires can be fast moving and change direction without warning.

"Call the fire brigade and let us know where the fire is.”