Disposable BBQ ban imposed as military aids wildfire response

The UK government has imposed a temporary ban on disposable barbecues, citing their role in sparking wildfires amid severe drought and heatwave conditions. The measure follows an emergency Cobra meeting and comes as military personnel are deployed to support firefighting efforts across England and Wales. ## Wildfires strain emergency services Over 1,000 wildfires have been recorded in England and Wales this year, matching last year's record, according to the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC). The ban on disposable barbecues applies to England, Scotland, and Wales but not Northern Ireland. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds described the move as a 'common-sense step to protect lives and the environment.' Prime Minister Andy Burnham warned that the country is 'a tinderbox,' with 37 active fires, four of which are classified as major incidents. He urged the public to avoid any outdoor fires, emphasizing the risk to homes and lives. Military support includes Gurkha logistics teams with water tankers and engineers assisting in South Wales, with more personnel ready to deploy if needed. ## Retailers and climate concerns Many large retailers had already voluntarily stopped selling disposable barbecues under a 2023 agreement with fire chiefs. David Skaith, Labour mayor for York and North Yorkshire, called for a permanent ban, citing the devices' fire risks. Burnham also announced plans to commission firefighting planes and provide emergency financial support for fire services, acknowledging their limited capacity to handle large-scale wildfires. Environmental group Friends of the Earth urged action on climate change, warning that without reducing carbon emissions, future heatwaves and wildfires will worsen. Burnham linked the wildfires to climate change, stressing the need for a transition to clean energy. The Rugby Football Union has delayed the start of the community rugby season due to drought conditions affecting player welfare and pitch quality. ## Recent incidents highlight risks Recent wildfires have caused significant damage, including in the West Midlands, where dozens of homes were destroyed. In Wales, a major incident was declared near Llandovery, leading to evacuations and road closures. Hampshire firefighters spent six days battling a blaze in the New Forest, while Norfolk crews handled 16 emergencies in one afternoon. An emergency alert sent to millions of phones warned of a 'very high risk of wildfires' and advised against activities that could start fires.