120 firefighters tackle Romford grass fires
London Fire Brigade issues 'exceptionally high' wildfire threat warning as over 30 acres of grassland burn.
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One hundred and twenty firefighters were called to combat two large grass fires in Romford on July 29, 2026. The incidents saw more than 30 acres of grassland consumed by flames near Eastern Avenue West and Southern Way.
Wildfire threat warning issued
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The London Fire Brigade declared an 'exceptionally high' wildfire threat for parts of the capital. This warning was in place as temperatures soared, with the UK Fire Severity Index map rating London's wildfire risk as 'very high' until August 2.
Sixty firefighters spent over two hours bringing a fire covering 30 acres of grassland near Eastern Avenue West under control. Another incident, near Southern Way, required approximately 60 firefighters and eight fire engines. This second blaze was brought under control after more than an hour.
The first calls to the Southern Way fire were received at 4.15pm, with crews bringing it under control by 5.50pm. The fire near Eastern Avenue West received its first call at 5.14pm and was controlled by 7.16pm. A specialist Terrain Support Vehicle was deployed to assist operations, providing off-road capability for equipment transport.
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Advice for public safety
Assistant Commissioner Pam Oparaocha urged the public to take precautions during the hot weather. She highlighted the dangers posed by disposable barbecues and smoking materials, which can ignite dry grassland. Oparaocha advised against using barbecues in parks and open spaces, and stressed the importance of responsible disposal of smoking materials.
She also warned against using barbecues on balconies or too close to combustible materials like fences and sheds. The fires occurred as London experienced temperatures exceeding 34C, increasing the risk of rapid fire spread.
Questions this report answers
+How many firefighters were involved in tackling the Romford grass fires?
A total of 120 firefighters were involved in tackling the two grass fires in Romford. This included 60 firefighters at each incident, supported by eight fire engines for one of the blazes. Their efforts brought both fires under control within hours.
+What areas were affected by the grass fires in Romford?
The grass fires affected areas near Eastern Avenue West and Southern Way in Romford. Over 30 acres of grassland were destroyed in these locations, with one fire covering 30 acres alone. The fires were brought under control by firefighters within hours of the initial calls.
+What warning did the London Fire Brigade issue regarding wildfires?
The London Fire Brigade issued an 'exceptionally high' wildfire threat warning for parts of London. This warning was in place as temperatures soared, with the UK Fire Severity Index rating London's wildfire risk as 'very high' until August 2.
+What safety advice did the London Fire Brigade give to the public?
Assistant Commissioner Pam Oparaocha advised the public against using disposable barbecues in parks and open spaces. She also warned against using barbecues on balconies or near combustible materials, and stressed responsible disposal of smoking materials to prevent fires.
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