Wildfire emergency warning explained - what to do now after government alert

Wildfire emergency warning explained - what to do now after government alert Millions received the Government's blaring wildfire alert - but what should you do now, why did some phones miss it and how does the emergency warning system work. Here's everything we know An emergency warning took Brits by surprise as their phones loudly alerted them to the growing wildfire risk. The major warning was issued across England and Wales as the government urged the public to take extra care amid an escalating wildfire threat. Millions of mobile phones sounded shortly after 7pm on Friday as ministers used the UK’s Emergency Alerts system to warn people about the exceptionally hot and dry conditions. Residents, landowners and visitors were told to avoid activities which could trigger a blaze, as firefighters continue to tackle wildfires across several parts of the country. It comes as ministers ramp up efforts to prevent further outbreaks, with the sale of disposable barbecues temporarily restricted and 100 additional military personnel deployed to areas dealing with major incidents. The Government has warned that even a small source of ignition could have devastating consequences, putting people, properties and emergency crews in danger. Wildfires have raged across the UK this week, including in Stourbridge, West Midlands, where around 40 homes have been destroyed. But the sudden alert has also prompted questions about why some people received it, why others may not have and what people should do now. Here is everything you need to know about the wildfire emergency alert. What was the emergency warning? The warning forms part of the Government’s action to protect communities from the growing threat of wildfires as the UK faces unprecedented, record-breaking wildfire activity following a series of intense summer heatwaves. The country is now experiencing its fifth widespread heatwave of the year, while fire services have been under immense strain. Eleven major incidents were declared simultaneously within a 24-hour period, forcing firefighters, alongside military personnel, to tackle active blazes across the country and prompting the Government’s stark warning to millions. What do I do now? People who received the alert are being urged to take extra care and avoid any activity that could increase the risk of a wildfire while conditions remain dangerously dry. This includes using disposable barbecues, fire pits, garden incinerators or fireworks, with even a small flame capable of developing into a serious blaze. Anyone who spots a fire or signs that one may have started should move to a safe place and call 999 immediately. People should also continue to follow official updates, as further advice could be issued if conditions change. Why didn't I get an alert? Not everyone in England and Wales will have heard the warning sound on their phones. Emergency Alerts are broadcast through nearby 4G and 5G mobile phone masts to compatible devices in range, rather than being sent to individual phone numbers. The Government says people will not receive an alert if their device is switched off, connected only to a 2G or 3G network, Wi-Fi only or not compatible with the system. The system works on iPhones running iOS 14.5 or later and Android devices running Android 11 or later, although some older Android devices may also receive alerts. People are also advised to make sure their phones have the latest software updates installed.