Firefighters in north Kent have warned of the "devastating impact" of fires as services have been inundated with emergencies over the past few days.

Residents in the area are asked to show "a little more care and attention" to prevent fires from starting after being called to a spate of incidents.

On Thursday (August 2), six crews spent 14 hours tackling a fire in a derelict building in Lowfield Street in Dartford town centre.

No injuries were reported in the fire, which broke out shortly before 5.30am, but nearby residents were asked to keep their windows closed for most of the day.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The following day, firefighters were called to a fire in Eynsford Road, Crockenhill. Four crews battled the blaze for an hour-and-a-half.

On Sunday (August 5), four fires were reported in Dartford, Swanscombe and Greenhithe with causes unknown in all incidents.

The cause of a shed fire in Langlands Drive in Dartford which spread to nearby trees at about 2.30pm is under investigation by the service.

At the same time, two fire engines were sent to Craylands Lane in Swanscombe to a grass fire near Swanscombe Heritage Park.

Another grassland fire in Greenhithe damaged 500 square metres of land.

And a fire in Sutton-at-Hone which "completely destroyed" a caravan is another mystery.

After a busy week, an urgent appeal has been issued to warn people to be careful with fire safety during hot weather.

Paul Flaherty, assistant director at Kent Fire and Rescue service, said: "Whilst there’s a real need to be vigilant, there’s also a need to be sensible and responsible too.

"We need people to take real care over barbecues; they should be managed carefully, with coals and ash disposed of once things have really cooled down."

He added: "Whilst most of these fires are started accidentally, it is the case that some are started deliberately.

"Please help us to protect our countryside by being vigilant and reporting those that you believe to be acting irresponsibly."

Mr Flaherty also urged people to take home their rubbish after they have a picnic in grassy areas, as reflections from bottles can cause fires.

“Kent Fire and Rescue Service is well prepared and will be there where and when we’re needed, but my appeal is to keep the demand for KFRS down for fires that can easily be avoided with a little more care and attention."