Fire crews were called to an out of control bonfire at a party.

One fire engine attended the blaze in a back garden in Knight Avenue in Canterbury last night.

Crews extinguished the bonfire, which contained lots of tightly packed wood pallets, with a hose reel jet.

The crew manager said the garden fence was very close to catching fire due to radiated heat, and probably would have done so within a few minutes had the fire service not been called.

Now, firefighters are urging people to take care when having bonfires and make sure they are an appropriate size for the premises, following a near miss last night.

Leanne McMahon, manager for community safety said: "Lots of people will be enjoying bonfires and firework displays this weekend, and if the right safety precautions are taken, it can be great fun.

"Make sure you build your bonfire well clear of buildings, garden sheds, fences, hedges and overhanging branches.

"Keep bonfires to a manageable size and evenly built so that they collapse inwards as they burn.

"Always check the bonfire's construction is still sound prior to lighting it, that there are no children or animals hiding inside, or that hazardous items such as aerosols and fireworks have not been thrown onto it.

"Using flammable liquids to help start a bonfire is dangerous, as is burning dangerous items such as aerosol cans, paint tins, foam furniture or batteries. Never leave bonfires unattended.

"If it has to be left, damp it down with water and keep a bucket of water or hosepipe nearby in case of emergency.

"Make sure that the fire is out and surroundings are made safe before leaving.

For more bonfire and firework display tips, click here.