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London firefighters have been busier this summer than all of last year

Related: Firefighters tackling wildfires in Scotland for third day
  • Multiple grass fires erupted across east London on Monday night and Tuesday afternoon, with the London Fire Brigade tackling more wildfires this summer than in the entirety of 2024.
  • A significant blaze in Dagenham on Monday evening required 125 firefighters and 20 fire engines, damaging garden property but successfully prevented from spreading to nearby homes.
  • Further fires were reported in Hornchurch, Walthamstow Marshes, and Upminster, stretching fire service resources.
  • A senior firefighter described the summer as "very busy" and conditions as "very challenging", but noted improved preparedness with new wildfire vehicles and specialist training.
  • The fires are typically caused by sparks from items like cigarettes and disposable barbecues, prompting warnings from the fire brigade.
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