THERE have been more than 60 grass fires across Bexley so far this year and firefighters are warning people to be more careful.

Borough fire commander Cyril O’Brien said: “It is extremely frustrating for the fire service because these fires are easily preventable.

He added: “With the hot weather set to continue, we’re bracing ourselves for a surge in the number of grass fires.”

Mr O’Brien also commented on the resources it takes to fight a grass fire, occupying large numbers of firefighters over a long period of time.

Bexley helped Kent firefighters tackle a blaze in a 40-acre cornfield in Dartford on Monday.

He warned: “In this hot weather a spark can spread like wildfire and cause devastation.”

Mr O’Brien urged people not to throw cigarettes from car windows, which can cause dry grass verges to catch fire and also not to abandon glass bottles on the ground, which can concentrate the sun’s rays.

People should also make sure camp fires and barbecues are always attended and put out properly when they have finished using them.

Children should also be warned about the dangers of using matches and lighters to set grass alight.

People are urged not to try and tackle a grass fire themselves but to dial 999 and, if it is safe, stay on the scene to direct firefighters.