Fireworks were set off by a group of youths near the entrance to the Birkenhead Tunnel on Friday night (August 14), just hours after an emergency alert warned of a “very high risk” of wildfires across England and Wales.
Police called to the scene
An incident manager for Merseyside Police confirmed officers were called to the area after fireworks were reportedly being set off. A witness said the group had been setting off fireworks for around 10 minutes before scattering at around 10.10pm when police arrived. Police remained at the scene to check for any embers before later leaving the area.
Emergency alert issued
The incident came just hours after an emergency alert was issued to millions of mobile phones across England and Wales warning people not to do anything that could spark a fire, including setting off fireworks. The alert was sent at around 7pm and warned of a “very high risk of wildfires nationally”. People were also urged to report any signs of fire immediately by calling 999.
Government response
The warning came as firefighters continued to battle wildfires across parts of the country, with more than 1,000 wildfires recorded so far this year. Prime Minister Andy Burnham has also announced a ban on disposable barbecues amid the heightened fire risk. First Secretary Louise Haigh said the Government had issued the alert because of the continued threat posed by wildfires. She said: “In response to the continued risk proposed by wildfires, the government has taken the decision to issue an Emergency Alert to England and Wales. This is the most extensive use of the UK’s Emergency Alert system in response to an active incident, and reflects the seriousness with which the government is acting to safeguard people and property.”
