UK Government Temporarily Bans Disposable Barbecues Amid Wildfire Crisis

The UK government has imposed a temporary ban on the sale of disposable barbecues as extreme heat and drought continue to fuel dangerous wildfires across the country. The government said the single use grills have been responsible for a number of serious wildfires this summer and now pose a “significant risk” to the public and environment. Retailers have been told that disposable barbecues should not be supplied either in shops or online while the current conditions persist.

The move follows a surge in wildfires, particularly across the West Midlands and South Wales. Six firefighters were taken to hospital with smoke inhalation and heat exhaustion, while emergency services in the West Midlands have treated more than 50 people, including 19 who required hospital treatment.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham has urged people not to light open fires of any kind and to dispose of cigarettes carefully, warning that the country is in an extremely dangerous and “combustible” situation. The government has also deployed 100 military personnel to South Wales to support firefighters dealing with major incidents. Fire services are already relying on mutual aid from crews across the UK as the number of simultaneous wildfires places increasing pressure on emergency resources.

The ban comes after the UK recorded its hottest day of the year, with temperatures reaching more than 38C in London on Thursday. Authorities are warning that the combination of extreme heat, drought and exceptionally dry vegetation could continue to create dangerous wildfire conditions. Downing Street said the restrictions will be kept under review, while ministers consider whether stronger seasonal restrictions on disposable barbecues may be necessary in the future.