(Image: Jacob King/PA Wire)
A prolonged period of dry and hot weather has resulted in the ground becoming a bigger risk for wildfires, with authorities across England and Wales asking the public to be more vigilant and think about their actions.
Today (August 14), 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.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham said the ban – which applies to Wales, Scotland, and England, but not Northern Ireland – would be in place "until further notice".
He also warned smokers against lighting up outdoors and urged them to dispose of cigarettes carefully.
🔥 Most wildfires are started by people, but drought conditions can make them much worse. Drier vegetation provides more fuel, helping fires grow larger and more severe.
Read our blog post to find out more: https://t.co/qvexqwfcAM pic.twitter.com/iPt3L6IJCM
— UK Health Security Agency (@UKHSA) August 14, 2026
A wildfire in Stourbridge this week destroyed 19 homes and damaged 18 others.
This evening, the government sent out an emergency alert via mobile phones warning the public about the serious wildfire risk.
Mobile users were told not to use barbecues, campfires, or fireworks, and to call 999 immediately if they spot a fire.
What to do if you see a wildfire
Whether you are outside or inside and you spot a wildfire, there are a few steps you will need to take.
The British Red Cross has outlined exactly what to do in this emergency.
Call 999 immediately and inform the call handler of the location of the fire as well as its size and any other information that is relevant, including the address if you know it or the OS or What3Words location.
You should try to "stay calm" and make sure you are in a safe place that's away from any vegetation and smoke.
You are also advised to close all windows and vents if you are in a car when you spot a wildfire.
If you happen to be at home or inside a building when you spot a wildfire, you will also need to be calm and get yourself to safety - the British Red Cross says you should not try putting out the fire yourself.
Call 999 and tell the handler your location, giving as much helpful information as possible.
Close all doors and windows but do not lock them.
It adds: "Let us know the best access point to get to the property.
"If safe to do so, stand by the access point and speak to fire crews when they arrive."