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Two men taken to hospital after a 10-acre field fire between Crockenhill and St Mary Cray near Swanley

21:15, 31 July 2024

Two men were taken to hospital following a 10-acre field fire.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters tackled the blaze off Crockenhill Road, between Crockenhill and St Mary Cray, near Swanley.

The blaze took place in a field off Crockenhill Road, between Crockenhill and St Mary Cray, near Swanley on Tuesday afternoon. Picture: Google Maps
The blaze took place in a field off Crockenhill Road, between Crockenhill and St Mary Cray, near Swanley on Tuesday afternoon. Picture: Google Maps

Just under 10 acres of a cornfield went up in flames yesterday at 4.30pm.

One man was treated at the scene and two other men were taken to hospital.

Part of a tractor and a small part of two electricity pylons were also damaged by the fire.

The London Brigade was called at 4.30pm and the fire was out by 6.10pm.

Around 40 firefighters were called to tackle a fire in a field off Crockenhill Road, between Crockenhill and St Mary Cray, near Swanley. Photo: Stock
Around 40 firefighters were called to tackle a fire in a field off Crockenhill Road, between Crockenhill and St Mary Cray, near Swanley. Photo: Stock

A fire service spokesman said: “Kent Fire and Rescue Service was called at 4.27pm to assist London Fire Brigade with a field fire on Crockenhill Road in Swanley.”

Crews from Orpington, Erith, Sidcup and surrounding fire stations also attended and firefighters were supported by the Brigade's All-Wheel Drive (AWD) vehicle.

This fire cames as the south east experienced temperatures of more than 30 degrees Celsius with a yellow Heat Health alert issued by the UK Health Security Agency.

During this type of weather, the risk of grass fires increases and London Fire Brigade asked people to follow crucial safety advice to help protect themselves, others, the environment and their property.

London Fire Brigade assistant commissioner for prevention and protection, Craig Carter, said: "We know many will want to enjoy the nice weather by visiting a park or open space.

“However, we’re asking people not to take disposable barbecues with them as they can cause grass fires, especially in hot weather when the ground is dry.

“These fires are unpredictable and can spread rapidly, causing a significant amount of damage.

Crockenhill Road was closed from its junction with Sheepcote Lane. Picture: Google
Crockenhill Road was closed from its junction with Sheepcote Lane. Picture: Google

"Don’t be tempted to barbecue on your balcony either. Balconies can contain combustible materials which can pose a risk to those barbecuing and others living nearby.

"If you are having a barbecue, never leave it unattended and be careful where it’s positioned.

“Aim for level ground and keep barbecues well away from anything flammable like sheds, fences, trees or tents."

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