Fire can spread easily, so where and how you build your controlled burn is important. Please follow these simple guidelines.
- The bonfire should be a minimum of fives times its height from property, sheds, fences and trees
- Don’t use petrol or paraffin to get the fire going as it may get out of control quickly.
- Light the fire at a time least likely to affect your neighbours - for example, not on a warm day when people will be in their garden.
- Only burn dry material, not damp which causes more smoke.
- Check there are no cables, like telephone wires above the fire.
- You could be fined if you light a controlled burn and you allow the smoke to drift across the road and become a danger to traffic.
- Warn your neighbours beforehand - they are much less likely to complain.
Controlled Burn Safety Tips
Once the fire is lit, make sure you:
- Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose nearby in case of emergencies.
- DON’T leave the fire unattended. • Keep children and pets away from the fire.
- DON’T throw any fireworks into the fire.
- DON’T burn aerosols, tyres, canisters or anything containing foam or paint - many produce toxic fumes and some containers may explode, causing injury.
Once the fire has died down, spray the embers with water to stop it reigniting.
Getting rid of your garden waste without a controlled burn
You can get rid of your garden waste without a controlled burn. Most garden waste, like grass cuttings and leaves, can be recycled by composting. Visit your local Council website for further information.
Please assist with unwanted fire calls by calling us before lighting a fire on 01332 861800
We want to know:
- Location of fire (postcode if possible).
- Contact number for someone staying with fire.
- Expected duration of fire.
- Any possible main routes fire could be seen from