Public told to save 999 calls for emergencies after alert sent
- Fire services across England and Wales have urged the public not to call 999 to report neighbours using barbecues unless there is a genuine emergency, following an influx of calls.
- Millions of people received a mobile emergency alert on Friday evening warning of a nationwide high risk of wildfires amidst dry, hot conditions.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham asked the public to take the warning seriously, which advised against activities such as using disposable barbecues, firepits, or fireworks.
- The emergency alert follows severe wildfires, including one in Stourbridge, West Midlands, which destroyed 19 homes across more than 500 acres.
- The UK recorded a provisionally record-breaking tenth day in 2026 with temperatures exceeding 35C, reaching 35.3C in Kent.
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