Householders suffer burns from garden waste fires in Staffordshire

Householders have suffered suffered burns after garden fires spread at two different properties in Staffordshire.

Fire crews were called to a home in a garden in Oakamoor following reports of a large bonfire which had gotten out of control on April 7 resulting in a man being taken to hospital after suffering burns to his face, hands and neck.

They were then called to Garmelow near Eccleshall following reports of a controlled burn which had spread to a fence at about 5.50pm on April 12.

Staffordshire Fire & Rescue Service said this fire was out when crews got to the scene near Stafford, but the occupier had suffered a minor burn which did not require medical treatment.

The brigade's 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.”