'Out of control' garden bonfire spread to shed and trees in Worcester suburb

A fire crew were called to a garden in Drake Avenue, Dines Green early yesterday afternoon to find the bonfire had spread to a nearby shed and ten 10 metres of conifer trees.

No one was hurt during the incident.

A spokesman for Hereford and Worcester Fire Service, said: "Two Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service crews from Worcester Fire Station were called to a fire in the open in Drake Avenue, Worcester at 13:14 on 26 October.

"Crews discovered an out-of-control bonfire which had spread to a garden shed and approximately 10m of conifers.

"The fire was extinguished using two hosereel jets and a reinspection was carried out at 16:30.

"There were no casualties and no other emergency services attended. The incident was closed at 18:19."

Group Commander Gareth Clarke of Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Bonfires can get out of control very easily. 

If you want to burn off garden waste or you are planning a bonfire to celebrate Guy Fawkes night, then please remember:

.         Site any bonfire well away from buildings, fences, trees and garden structures.

·         Don’t light a bonfire on a windy day, as it could flare up more than you expect.

·         Never use flammable liquids such as petrol or paraffin to start a bonfire.

·         Don’t burn foam filled furniture, aerosols, bottles or paints.

·         Keep people, especially children away from the fire. If children are present, ensure they are supervised at all times.

·         Never leave a bonfire unattended.

·         Have a garden hose to hand in case the fire starts to get out of control.

·         Always pour water over embers to ensure a bonfire is fully extinguished before leaving it.

·         If a fire should get out of hand, dial 999 and call the Fire and Rescue Service at once.

"The best advice, however, is to attend an organised bonfire and fireworks display if you wish to celebrate Guy Fawkes in style."