A routine garden burn spiraled into a dramatic scene on Easter Monday morning as an out-of-control bonfire at a property on Westcourt Lane required an emergency response from Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
Dispatchers received the call at 10:39 AM after the fire grew beyond the owner’s control and began spreading to nearby fencing. Two fire engines were rushed to the scene, where crews deployed high-pressure hose reel jets to suppress the flames. Firefighters battled the blaze for approximately 20 minutes, successfully bringing the incident under control by 11:01 AM.
While no injuries were reported, the incident has prompted a stern safety warning from the fire service as spring cleaning season gets underway. Officials are urging residents to remain vigilant by never leaving a bonfire unattended and ensuring the fire is kept to a manageable size, far away from greenery, fences, or buildings.
Authorities emphasize that a means of extinguishing the fire, such as a bucket of water or a garden hose, should always be within reach. In the event that a fire does become unmanageable, the public is advised to move to a safe distance immediately and call 999.