Tielt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A hedge fire in Tielt caused major damage after residents placed barbecue coals nearby. The blaze shattered three windows and prompted emergency response.
Although they were able to preserve a portion of the hedge, the fire department cautions that in this hot and dry weather, one should use extreme caution when handling coals.
In the Vijfpachtgoenstraat, the fire began next to a house. The house’s occupants had set up the coals close to the hedge a short distance from their residence following a barbeque last night.
The hedge caught fire this afternoon at 1 p.m. when the warm weather caused the coals to begin burning in Tielt, Belgium.
Shortly after arriving on the scene, the fire department created a hole in the about 30-meter-long hedge. Eventually, roughly 10 meters of the hedge burned off as a result of their efforts to contain the fire. Additionally, three of the house’s windows blew out due to the heat.
The fire department is warning people not to put hot coals in the grass and to use particular caution when grilling in current hot and dry weather conditions.
What measures do fire brigades recommend for safe outdoor cooking now?
To stop unintentional fires from spreading, place grills and barbecues on secure surfaces at least 10 feet (about 3 meters) away from structures, trees, bushes, and other combustible objects.
Because errant coals or embers can quickly ignite surrounding combustible things, never leave grills or barbecues unattended while in operation.
Coals and ashes should be properly extinguished and disposed of by making sure they are completely cooled before throwing them away from any buildings or plants. Steer clear of hot embers near dry grass or hedges.
Because sparks can travel and ignite flames more readily in dry circumstances, stay away from grilling or outdoor fires on windy days or during fire restrictions.
