Reminder not to burn waste following increase in incidents

We are reminding residents to avoid burning household and garden waste after we attended several controlled burns recently.

Crews were called at 5.50pm on Sunday (12 April), to a home in the Garmelow area of Stafford following reports of a controlled burn which had spread to a fence.

The fire was out when crews got to the scene, but the occupier had suffered a minor burn which did not require medical treatment.

On Tuesday 7 April, crews were called to a garden in Oakamoor following reports of a large bonfire which had gotten out of control.

A man was taken to hospital after suffering burns to his face, hands and neck.  

Head of Prevent, Protect and Partnerships, Ian Read, said: “As we have seen in recent incidents, bonfires can quickly become out of control and not only damage the environment but put people at risk too.

“Burning waste is unpredictable and fires can spread quickly, especially when an accelerant is used.

“We ask that people avoid burning waste and take rubbish to the local tip instead. Residents can also pay an annual fee to have their garden waste bin emptied by the council.”

For more outdoor safety tips, visit Safety outside.