Staffordshire Fire and Rescue has confirmed that a disposable barbecue caused a grass fire in the Goldenhill area of Stoke-on-Trent that severely damaged four homes and destroyed gardens. The blaze in Sandyford Park spread rapidly on Thursday due to extremely dry conditions and wind speeds, leading to roofs being destroyed and windows blown out at four properties.
Investigation confirms accidental ignition
An investigation by the fire service established that the fire was accidental and ignited by a disposable barbecue. The blaze also destroyed several gardens in Sandy Road and Maureen Avenue, forcing residents to evacuate to a nearby community centre. Four firefighters were taken to hospital after suffering smoke inhalation and the effects of heat exhaustion. One firefighter remains in hospital, while the other three have since been discharged.
The Stoke-on-Trent fire was one of numerous blazes that broke out across the West Midlands, Wales and other regions last week. The incidents prompted Prime Minister Andy Burnham to announce a temporary ban on disposable barbecues amid continuing hot weather conditions.
Fire service warns of ongoing risks
Station manager Liam Hickey, who attended the scene, said: "This incident goes to show the devastation and impact that disposable barbecues can have on local communities. Although this incident took place before the temporary national ban was announced, it shows why it is so important that people adhere to these new rules and do everything possible to help protect people in Staffordshire from the risks of wildfires during a period of continued unpredicted demand."
Hickey added: "We are continuing to do everything we can to tackle these fires and carry out prevention activity in high-risk areas, and we ask that people continue to take extra precautions to help ease the impact on local communities and emergency services who continue to work hard to keep people safe."
