The UK government sent an emergency alert to mobile devices in England and Wales on Friday evening, warning of a very high risk of wildfires and urging people not to undertake any activity that could start a fire. The alert began appearing on devices from 7pm.
Government's response to wildfire risk
Louise Haigh, the First Secretary of State, said the government decided to issue the alert in response to the continued risk posed by wildfires. She described it as the most extensive use of the UK's emergency alert system in response to an active incident, reflecting the seriousness with which the government is acting to safeguard people and property.
Haigh added that during the period of extreme heat, people are being asked to take simple steps to limit the risk of further fires. She said that by following the safety guidance, everyone can play their part in protecting local communities and supporting frontline services. The government will continue to provide assistance to affected communities, including the deployment of 100 additional military personnel in major incident areas.
Alert content and system details
The alert read: "There is a very high risk of wildfires nationally. Residents, landowners and visitors should not undertake any activity that could start a fire, including disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators or fireworks. Even a small flame can rapidly develop into a major wildfire placing lives, homes, businesses and emergency responders at risk. Follow official updates and report signs of fire immediately by calling 999."
Emergency Alerts is a UK government system that provides warning and advice in a life-threatening emergency. The government does not need to know your phone number or location to send an alert. When an alert is sent, mobile phones or tablets may make a loud siren sound, vibrate, or read out the alert, with the sound and vibration lasting about 10 seconds. Alerts include a phone number or link to the GOV.UK website for more information and are based on current location, not where you live or work. Location services do not need to be turned on to receive alerts.
Barbecue ban in force
Earlier this week, Andy Burnham said he would consider imposing a ban on disposable barbecues amid the risk of further wildfires as extreme heat continues to grip parts of the UK. Today, a temporary ban on disposable barbecues has come into force after the grills were said to be the source of multiple wildfires which have broken out across the country.
