High Wildfire Risk in England and Wales Prompts Emergency Alert as Authorities Urge Public to Avoid Any Activity That Could Start a Fire

On Friday, authorities warned of a serious nationwide fire risk, prompting millions of people in England and Wales to receive an emergency alert on their mobile devices.

The alerts were sent at around 7:00 p.m. and included a siren sound, urging residents to avoid any action that could ignite a fire.

Officials have asked the public not to light barbecues, campfires or fireworks, or engage in any other activity that could cause a fire. Anyone who spots a fire should immediately alert the emergency services by calling 999.

Deputy Prime Minister Louise Haigh said this was the widest activation to date of the UK’s emergency alert system for an ongoing incident, adding that the move demonstrated the severity of the situation and the government’s commitment to protecting people’s lives and property.

The warning came after a series of large-scale fires affected several regions in England and Wales. In the West Midlands town of Stourbridge, flames damaged homes and left people injured. According to the authorities, the country faces an extremely difficult weekend because of the hot, dry weather.

As part of preventive measures, a temporary nationwide ban on the sale of disposable barbecues has also been introduced. The restriction will remain in force for as long as the fire risk is assessed as high.

The situation in Wales is so concerning that the army has been called in to assist the emergency services. Around 100 soldiers have already been deployed to the area, and the same number are expected to join teams handling water supplies and logistical support.

The number of fires this year has already exceeded the total recorded a year earlier. More than 1,017 fires have been recorded in England and Wales, surpassing the number registered during 2025. In just 24 hours, fire brigades reported 11 major incidents.