Emergency Alert sent to all phones in England and Wales warning residents amid massive wildfires
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An emergency alert is being issued to mobile phones across England and Wales as the government responds to widespread wildfires during extreme heat. Residents are being told not to use potential ignition sources such as barbecues, campfires or fireworks, and to call 999 immediately if they spot a fire; the move reflects concern about risks to homes, communities and emergency services.
The alert is being sent gradually from about 7pm and is described as the UK system’s most extensive use for an active incident. More than 1,000 wildfires have been recorded nationally this year, while the government says it will deploy 100 additional military personnel to major incident areas; plans also include a disposable-barbecue ban and commissioning firefighting aircraft.
- Emergency alerts warn against activities that could ignite fires.
- More than 1,000 wildfires have been recorded this year.
- Government plans military support and additional fire-prevention measures.
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Wildfires are fires that spread through grass, heathland, woodland or other open countryside. They can start accidentally from a discarded cigarette, a barbecue, a campfire or sparks, and dry vegetation and strong winds can make them move quickly.
Fire and rescue services are responsible for tackling fires, while local councils, police and national government can support evacuations, road closures and public safety measures. The military can also be asked to provide staff, equipment or transport when emergency services face sustained pressure.
Extreme heat can dry out vegetation and increase the chance that a small ignition develops into a larger fire. Wildfires can threaten homes, disrupt travel, damage wildlife and land, and place significant demands on emergency responders.
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