Key facts
- A temporary GB-wide ban on the sale of disposable barbecues has been implemented.
- Military personnel will assist in combating wildfires across Britain.
- Prime Minister Andy Burnham described Britain as a 'tinderbox' due to current weather conditions.
- The government is considering commissioning firefighting planes.
- Emergency financial support for fire services is being planned.
The UK government has enacted a temporary, nationwide ban on the sale of disposable barbecues, with military assistance being mobilized to combat a surge in wildfires. Prime Minister Andy Burnham emphasized the extreme fire risk, describing Britain as a "tinderbox" and urging the public to exercise caution.
The ban, effective immediately, requires retailers to withdraw disposable barbecues from sale, both in-store and online. The government cited advice indicating that these single-use grills have been responsible for several serious wildfires over the summer months and are not considered safe given the current weather and environmental conditions.