PEOPLE are being urged to avoid lighting bonfires during the coronavirus pandemic – or they could face an abatement notice.

Slough Borough Council has seen an increase in reports of lit bonfires despite advice not to during the public health crisis due to the smoke and toxic fumes which could significantly affect neighbours who are suffering from, or recovering from, the virus.

If a complaint is made, neighbourhood enforcement officers could visit residents burning waste and consider issue fines.

READ MORE: The sexual assault referral centre in Slough is still operating

The council is urging those thinking of burning waste or having a bonfire in their gardens to reconsider as it will cause a nuisance and a health risk to the community – especially those with Covid-19.

Coronavirus specifically attacks the lungs, reducing capacity for the oxygen necessary for the body to function and therefore any additional element which makes it harder to breathe is threatening to someone’s health.

Households are asked to temporarily store their excess waste until the lockdown is over and take it to the Household Waste Recycling Centre (HWRC) or use a licensed waste carrier when reopened.

With the lovely warm weather, it has left gardens dry – creating a greater fire risk where bonfires can easily get of control and spread, causing burns and therefore putting extra pressure on NHS services.

READ MORE: The latest Slough, Windsor and Maidenhead planning applications

Josie Wragg, chief executive, said: “We are urging residents to think twice about lighting a fire in their gardens as this horrid illness particularly affects the lungs, and smoke from a bonfire can aggravate it.

“People who have spent their time usefully clearing out garages, attics and sheds, or tidying gardens can keep their waste until Chalvey Household Waste and Recycling Centre reopens.

“Our advice is to store waste and use our green bin service, until it can be taken to Chalvey HWRC.”

If residents have a neighbour causing a nuisance by having a bonfire, you can contact the council on 01753 475111 with as many details as possible.