Due to an increased number of controlled burns within the last four weeks, Nottinghamshire Fire and Rescue Service (NFRS) have seen a rise of 123% when compared to this time last year. The service is advising people NOT to light bonfires in the garden during the Coronavirus pandemic. 

In recent weeks, the Service has seen a rise in the number of calls to bonfire and ‘controlled burning’ in residential areas after reports by concerned neighbours.

NFRS recently attended incidents of garden fires spreading to nearby hedges, fences, sheds and even to houses.

An incident took place in the Mansfield area which resulted in a loss of a summer house and resulted in fire spreading to neighbouring properties.

Station Manager Paul Gair said: “As the weather gets warmer and people staying at home in line with government advice, we have seen an increase in residents lighting bonfires and we have had to deal with a number of bonfires that have got out of control.

“We are now asking Nottinghamshire residents to refrain from having bonfires due to the potential health implications the smoke could have on the respiratory system.

“We also ask you to consider the implications this could have on NFRS at this time due to unnecessary demand of bonfire calls.”