Wildfire Warnings Underscored by Blaze at Pear Tree Park

Hot weather sparks multiple fires across Ealing

Firefighters look to contain the fire in Perivale. Picture: Peter Yale

August 14, 2026

A wildfire that broke out at Pear Tree Park on Wednesday lunchtime (12 August) has reinforced urgent warnings from Ealing Council and the London Fire Brigade about the growing risk of fires across the borough’s parks, allotments and open spaces during the current spell of hot, dry weather.

The blaze, which affected part of the former golf course area at Pear Tree Park, was attended by London Fire Brigade crews shortly after midday.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters attended and deployed Firefighters used backpack blowers, which work just like leaf blowers, to tackle the fire. They allow firefighters to push flames back into already burnt areas. This is a tactic that provides a faster, more efficient attack on wildfires. Wildfire beaters were also used. The beater is made of a long handle with a flat piece of rubber at the end. They’re used to beat the flames, which deprives them of oxygen and cools them down.

Approximately three hectares of grass and shrubland were destroyed by fire.

The incident It follows a series of recent fires at Horsenden Hill, Perivale Park and Gunnersbury Park, where parched grass and vegetation have created tinder-dry conditions. With temperatures remaining high and rainfall scarce, emergency services say the borough is now at heightened risk of accidental wildfires.

Ealing Council issued a borough-wide wildfire warning on 10 August, urging residents to take extra care when visiting parks, allotments and open spaces. The message is stark: barbecues, discarded cigarette butts, broken glass and even litter left in the sun can ignite fires that spread rapidly.

“Did you know how easy it could be to start an accidental wildfire in this hot, dry weather?” the council asked in its public notice. “Our parks have been scorched by the sun. As have local allotments.”

The warning comes after firefighters were called to multiple incidents in recent weeks, including grass fires at Perivale Park and Horsenden Hill, and a blaze at Gunnersbury Park that required swift intervention to prevent further spread.

Patrick Goulbourne, assistant commissioner for operational resilience and control at London Fire Brigade, said the conditions are primed for fast-moving fires.

“In these dry conditions, it only takes a spark to start a grass fire and they can spread rapidly, quickly threatening homes, workplaces, infrastructure and the environment,” he said. “Please don’t take a disposable barbecue with you. Even after they have been extinguished, they can retain heat for many hours and pose a serious fire risk.”

The Fire Brigade is also advising residents to keep home barbecues well away from fences, sheds, trees and anything else that could catch fire.

To reduce risk, Ealing Council has introduced a temporary ban on barbecues and bonfires at all council-managed allotments. Park rangers and volunteers have been working to reduce fire hazards, but officials say public cooperation is essential.

Councillor Lauren Wall, cabinet member for thriving communities, said,

“We’ve all seen on the news how devastating a wildfire can be and we are fortunate that the recent fires in our parks were not worse. We’re asking the public to play its part in keeping everyone who uses our parks and open spaces safe.”

Council Leader Peter Mason echoed the warnings, emphasising that Ealing’s parks and green spaces are under significant pressure during the hotter months.

“Dry grass, shrubs and vegetation can ignite very quickly in hot conditions. Disposable barbecues, unattended cooking equipment, discarded cigarettes and any open flames are a huge risk,” he said. “A single careless moment can cause significant damage to our parks, wildlife habitats and nearby homes.”

Cllr Mason urged residents to take three simple steps while the hot weather continues:

• Water a young tree if you can
• Clean up after yourself when using parks
• Avoid anything that could create a fire risk

He added that climate resilience “requires all of us working together” to protect Ealing’s green spaces for future generations.

For further guidance on preventing wildfires, visit the London Fire Brigade’s official safety page: Wildfires – protecting your home and garden.