Key Points:
- A major fire broke out on Saturday afternoon, 12 April 2025, in Harold Hill, damaging six homes.
- The blaze began around 4.30pm and spread rapidly through gardens due to dry conditions.
- Video footage shows flames and thick black smoke engulfing several properties.
- London Fire Brigade crews quickly responded and brought the fire under control.
- Residents lost sentimental items and urged caution over the use of bonfires and fire pits.
- Havering’s Fire Commander Paul McClenaghan issued warnings about BBQ and smoking safety.
- Safety advice on barbecues, smoking, and rubbish disposal was reiterated following the incident.
A devastating fire destroyed six gardens in Harold Hill on Saturday afternoon, leaving residents heartbroken over the loss of cherished possessions. The blaze, which broke out around 4.30pm, quickly spread between properties due to dry weather conditions and the close proximity of sheds and garden furniture. Firefighters responded promptly, managing to control the fire before it caused even more widespread damage.
How did the Harold Hill fire start and spread?
The fire reportedly began just before 4.30pm in the back gardens of properties in Harold Hill. Dry weather and closely packed outdoor structures allowed the flames to spread with alarming speed.
One resident recounted: “The first thing we saw was the smoke coming over our house. The back of our summer house was alight and we could see how quickly it was spreading.” The couple described how they had spent years transforming their summer house into a treasured retreat, now mostly destroyed. “We had sentimental possessions there that we have lost,” they said. “Trees have had to be cut down as they were burnt. The front of our summer house is still standing, but that’s it.”
What was the response from the London Fire Brigade?
The London Fire Brigade received numerous emergency calls from concerned residents. Firefighters arrived quickly and contained the blaze, preventing even more serious damage.
Neighbours reported that embers from the fire were carried by the wind, landing two properties ahead. One resident warned: “We just want people to be mindful of others when starting bonfires or fire pits. This fire showed just how quickly it can spread.”
What has Havering’s Fire Commander said about fire safety?
Havering’s Fire Commander Paul McClenaghan spoke to The Havering Daily following the fire. He said:
“We want everyone to enjoy the sunshine but we urge people to take the necessary precautions to stay safe and help prevent a grass fire from starting. As the weather warms up and we head towards summer, we would urge Londoners not to have barbecues in open spaces, such as parks, or on balconies. This includes disposable barbecues. People should also dispose of cigarettes carefully to avoid inadvertently starting a fire.”
Commander McClenaghan’s message emphasised how easily a small spark can cause devastation under the right conditions.
What fire safety advice has been issued?
Following the incident, residents are urged to follow these guidelines:
How to use disposable BBQs safely
- Do not bring disposable barbecues into parks or open spaces; they are banned in many areas and fines of £100 can be issued.
- Never use disposable BBQs indoors, on balconies, or near flammable items like sheds and fences.
- Remember that disposable BBQs retain heat for many hours even after appearing to be extinguished.
How to BBQ safely at home
- Position BBQs outdoors on level ground, away from sheds, fences, or trees.
- Never leave a BBQ unattended, and avoid alcohol while managing it.
- Keep children, pets, and games at a safe distance.
- Allow BBQs to fully cool before moving them.
- Dispose of ashes on bare soil, not in bins.
How to prevent smoking-related fires
- Fully extinguish cigarettes and use ashtrays, especially when smoking outdoors or on balconies.
- Never throw cigarette butts out of car windows.
How to manage rubbish to reduce fire risk
- Dispose of all rubbish properly in bins or take it home.
- Never leave glass bottles in open spaces, as sunlight passing through glass can start fires.
What impact did the Harold Hill fire have on the local community?
This fire has left a lasting impact on those affected, with many residents grieving the loss of precious personal items. The incident has also sparked renewed calls for better awareness and responsibility when handling open flames in residential areas.
One resident summed up the collective feeling: “It’s devastating to see how fast it all went up. We’re just grateful no one was hurt, but we want people to understand how easily something like this can happen.”
As summer approaches, emergency services are appealing for extra caution to prevent further tragedies.
