Weed burner safety highlighted

Firefighters were called to a report of trees on fire in Cheshire and now home owner Frank Lowe is keen to warn others of the possible dangers of weed burners.

Frank said: "I prefer to use a weed burner over weedkiller because it is far more ecological. I've been using them for years with no issue, never realising what could happen.

"However, on Wednesday I was weed burning on our patio which has conifers overhanging the edge. A burnt weed flared up catching the lower branches of the conifers which caught fire with unbelievable speed."

The blaze, which has completely burnt the conifers, was put out by firefighters using a hose reel jet and Mr Lowe was treated by the crew for smoke inhalation.

Frank continued: "The incident hasn't put me off using a weed burner but I will take extra care to avoid using it where there are overhanging branches in future. I'm really grateful to the firefighters who did such a good job of putting out the blaze."

Firefighter Stu Plaskett who attended the incident said: "We have attended several fires involving weed burners and would always urge everyone to read and take note of the safety information that comes with the device."

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