Warning after discarded glass bottle starts fire in Bognor Regis

Firefighters have warned people not to leave their rubbish behind during the hot weather following the incident.

Crews were called to reports of a fire in the open on North Bersted Street at 12.24pm, a fire service spokesman said.

Joint Fire Control mobilised two fire engines from Bognor Regis Fire Station.

Upon arrival, they found a bush near a static caravan well alight.

The firefighters were alerted to a number of gas canisters at the property, which were quickly removed to safety while crews brought the fire under control using three high pressure hose reels and two wildfire beaters.

Fortunately there were no injuries, but the fire caused around 150 square metres of damage, the spokesman said.

“Firefighters at the scene believe the fire was started accidentally by sunlight refracting through a discarded glass bottle,” said the spokesman.

“In this hot weather, we would like to remind all residents to please take your rubbish away with you when you leave.

“The ground remains exceptionally dry, and it doesn’t take much for a fire to take hold very quickly.”