Fire service issues warning following injuries at two garden fires

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service has urged the public to 'remain safe' after two controlled garden fires got out of control, resulting in two people being injured.

On Sunday, November 3, the fire service sent crews out to a home near Station Street, Cheslyn Hay, at around 1.20pm, after a garden fire resulted in an explosion. 

A man in his 60s was burning items in a new brazier in his back garden, which resulted in the man getting a series of burns. 

He was taken to hospital after it happened with injuries to his hands and face. 

On the same day, another incident took place at a home in Tamworth.

A man was carrying out a controlled burn of waste in his garden. An asthma inhaler in the fire exploded, resulting in the man receiving burns to his face and ear. 

He was treated by fire crews and paramedics from the West Midlands Ambulance Service before going to hospital. 

Ian Read, head of prevent and protect at Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: "Accidental incidents like this are the type of fires that can sadly spread rapidly and cause serious harm to people.

"It's absolutely vital that refuse waste is recycled and disposed of correctly. More people may be looking for ways to clear clutter and waste in the build-up of Christmas, but burning these items brings a host of fire safety risks. 

"If you are carrying out controlled burns in your garden, please make sure you don't use any flammable liquids or fuel like oil, methylated spirits, paraffin or petrol. Don’t burn items that can be toxic, like paint, rubber, foam and chipboard, and don’t light fires near fences, buildings and trees.

"Before burning, make sure you have a way of putting out the fire. Don’t leave it unattended at any point and make sure fuel is not kept nearby, like logs and flammable materials."