Luton residents urged to avoid bonfires as wildfire risk remains very high

The fire service has teamed up with Luton Council to urge residents to avoid outdoor bonfires and garden fires as the Bedfordshire faces a very high risk of wildfire.

The county is currently experiencing a ‘very high’ wildfire risk, according to the Fire Severity Index, with fire crews experiencing a significant increase in incidents involving bonfires and other outdoor fires. With major wildfires currently affecting communities across the UK, local authorities are warning that Bedfordshire is not immune to the threat.

The combination of record-breaking temperatures during June and July and a prolonged period of dry weather has left grassland, vegetation and open spaces particularly vulnerable. In these conditions, it can take just a single spark for a fire to spread rapidly and become difficult to control.

Mark Garrett, Head of Protection and Response at Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “We are now seeing the effects of a long, hot summer. Our crews are dealing with a noticeable increase in call outs to outdoor fire-related incidents.

“These incidents are often avoidable and can take considerable time and resources to contain due to the exceptionally dry conditions across Bedfordshire.

“We are urging residents to think carefully about their actions and help prevent avoidable fires this summer by avoiding bonfires and other unnecessary outdoor fires.”

As part of the joint appeal, Luton Council is encouraging residents to make use of alternative waste disposal options rather than burning garden waste.

Councillor Tahmina Saleem, Leader of Luton Council, said: “We encourage residents to consider alternative methods of disposing of garden waste during periods of hot and dry weather.

“Household waste recycling centres offer a safe and responsible way to dispose of larger garden waste items, while home composting can help residents recycle organic material and support healthier gardens throughout the summer.”

Residents are also reminded to take extra care when enjoying outdoor spaces by disposing of smoking materials responsibly, avoiding the use of disposable barbecues in areas of dry vegetation, and reporting fires immediately by calling 999.

For more information on wildfire safety and prevention, visit the Bedfordshire Fire and Rescue Service website.