Firefighters called to ‘large’ grass blaze near primary school

Firefighters dealt with a fire covering a large area of grass near a primary school in Henbury this morning - as Avon and Fire Rescue Service issued a warning over the risk of fire in the high temperatures.

The service said it had received 418 calls over fires from July 11 to 18, up from 330 the week before. A spokesperson said that although it was tempting to light fires such as barbecues and bonfires during the heatwave, they strongly urged people not to do so.

Crews from Southmead were called to the grass fire off Crow Lane, near Blaise Primary and Nursey School, at 10.20am this morning.

Using two high pressure hose reels, the firefighters extinguished the blaze.

The spokesperson said: “Crews from Southmead were called to reports of a grass fire at 10.20am. On arrival, crews found one fire covering a large area of grass.

“With two high pressure hose reels in use, crews extinguished the fire. The cause of the incident was said to have been accidental ignition.”

Temperatures are set to remain above 30C for most of today, and remain in the mid-20s well in to the night.

With the hot weather, Avon Fire and Rescue Service said during the past week more bonfires, barbecues and other deliberate fires were spreading out of control due to soaring temperatures.

A spokesperson said: “Aside from health and wellbeing, many people are making the most of the heatwave and taking to the great outdoors to enjoy the sunshine. Some of the most popular heatwave traditions are lighting barbecues and spending warm evenings outdoors, next to a fire.

“Whilst we understand that many people will be tempted to light fires during this period, we would strongly urge you not to do this.”