Fire Brigade advises ‘don’t light bonfire indoors’ after synagogue lights bonfire indoors

Lighting indoor bonfires is not a good idea, the London Fire Brigade has advised.

The emergency service shared its insight after Jewish News showed it a video of a Lag BaOmer bonfire celebration held indoors at Beis Medrash Beis Shmuel in Golders Green last week.

Flames three-feet high, lit by Rabbi Dovid Halpern, brother of Rabbi Chaim Halpern, soared inside the main synagogue hall as dozens of children watched on. The event took place indoors due to rain.

The fire and rescue service said: “Though we are keen to see communities enjoying the festival of Lag b’Omer, we don’t want to see anyone harmed as a result.  You should never build a bonfire indoors. It’s easy for fires to quickly spread out of control, putting properties and people’s lives at risk.”

It added: “There’s also an increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. You can’t taste, see, or smell carbon monoxide fumes, but it can kill in minutes. If you do choose to build a bonfire outdoors, always check your local authority’s advice on bonfires and follow our safety tips such as: never using paraffin or petrol, building your bonfire clear of buildings, sheds and fences, and never leaving your bonfire unattended.”

Barnet Council: “There is no legislation against domestic bonfires, unless they are causing a nuisance, such as black smoke.” JN: “And if the bonfire is INSIDE THE BUILDING?” Barnet Council: “Ah. Please hold.” https://t.co/AIWDhOiofu

— Richard Ferrer