West Sussex Residents Warned Over Garden Fire Risk During Bank Holiday Weekend

West Sussex residents are being urged to take extra care over the bank holiday weekend following a series of garden fires across the county in recent weeks.

West Sussex Fire and Rescue Service said crews have attended six garden fires in the past fortnight, with incidents reported in Broadbridge Heath, Crawley, North Bersted, Southwater and Gossops Green.

A total of 23 fire engines were sent to the six incidents.

Crawley fire station manager James McGrath said warmer weather and more people spending time outdoors can increase the risk of fires spreading.

He said:

“We would strongly discourage people from having garden bonfires, particularly in built-up residential areas, as they can spread quickly, affect neighbouring properties and cause significant nuisance and distress to nearby residents.”

Residents are also being reminded to properly extinguish cigarettes and dispose of smoking materials safely.

Mr McGrath warned people living in flats or properties with balconies to never throw cigarettes from height, as they can easily start fires in nearby gardens, balconies or outdoor spaces below.

The fire service has also highlighted the risks linked to large lithium-ion batteries, including those used in electric bikes and garden tools, which can pose a fire hazard if damaged or incorrectly stored.