Grass Fires – How To Prevent Them & What To Do If You See One

The long, hot, dry summer we are having is increasing the risk of fires – from wildfires such as grass fires to garden fires.

Grass, plants, trees and shrubs catch alight much more easily in dry weather and a simple dropped cigarette butt, barbeque ash, bonfire flame, lighter or hot embers can cause dry grass and vegetation to catch fire fast. In such dry conditions, especially when there is a breeze, a little spark can become a big fire in no time. These fires spread quickly and soon threaten homes, wildlife and people.

What can you do to reduce the risk of local grass and garden fires? And what should you do if you see one?

Keeping Nehemiah Tenants Safe From Grass Fires

Our biggest commitment is to keeping tenants and communities safe. To do so, we need your help because to keep the risk of grass fires to a minimum and keep your homes safe is a team effort.

There are things you can do to keep your home and community safe, including:

• Cutting your own grass often to keep it short
• Removing dry leaves and other plant matter, especially those near homes, sheds or fences
• Using a barbeque sensibly – for example, placing it on level ground and away from items that could catch fire, keeping a bucket of water nearby just in case, watching it while it’s lit and making sure the ashes are fully out before disposing of them
• Recycling garden waste where possible instead of having bonfires
• Keeping matches and lighters out of sight
• Speaking to children about the dangers of lighters and matches
• Checking any cigarette ends are out, if you smoke, and disposing of them properly
• Taking litter home with you if bins are full – this is particularly important for glass bottles and clear plastic that can increase fire risk in sunlight

What Should You Do If You See A Grass Or Garden Fire?

If you notice a grass fire or fire within a garden and it’s spreading fast, keep away and call 999 immediately to ask for the Fire Service. Explain to the operator where the fire is, how big it is and which direction it’s spreading, and whether there is a risk to property or people.

Always call 999 to report a fire – don’t assume someone else has already called about it.

Nehemiah Is Here To Help & Support

Nehemiah provides comfortable, safe and affordable homes as well as services that support all tenants to live within supportive communities. It’s important that we all look out for one another so that not only can our tenants be happy with and proud of where they live, they can do so safely.

When the weather is hot and dry for long periods, there is a greater risk of fires in our communities. By taking steps to reduce the risk of grass fires and fires in our gardens, we can ensure safe neighbourhoods for everyone.

Together, we can help to reduce the risk of grass fires and limit their impact if they do happen.

If you’d like to speak to us about fire safety and ways to keep your home and community safe from grass fires, you can contact the Property Services Team or call us on 0121 358 0966 or email contact@nehemiah.co.uk and we will do all we can to help.