Disposable barbecues have been temporarily banned from sale across Great Britain amid fears they pose a significant risk to the public as drought and heatwave conditions continue to grip the UK. The government stated that these single-use grills have been the cause of a number of serious wildfires across the country over the summer months.

This measure comes as the country grapples with unprecedented high temperatures and widespread dry conditions, leading to a surge in wildfire incidents. The potential ban was first discussed at an emergency Cobra meeting earlier this week in response to record temperatures.

The public has been urged to exercise extreme caution, refraining from lighting open fires and ensuring cigarettes are disposed of safely. Prime Minister Andy Burnham described the nation as a "tinderbox," highlighting the extreme vulnerability of the landscape to ignition.

In a significant escalation of the response, 200 military personnel have been deployed to aid emergency teams tackling wildfires. This deployment includes Gurkha logistics teams equipped with water tankers and military engineers who are now assisting fire services in South Wales. Prime Minister Burnham has indicated that further military personnel may be deployed elsewhere if needed.

Fire crews across England and Wales have been working tirelessly, tackling multiple blazes. On Friday, an emergency alert was sent to millions of mobile phones warning of a "very high risk" of wildfires nationally across England and Wales. The alert advised residents, landowners, and visitors to avoid any activity that could spark a fire, explicitly mentioning disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators, and fireworks.

Data shared by the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) reveals that a total of 1,017 wildfires have been recorded in England and Wales this year, matching last year's record. The blazes have caused devastating consequences, including the destruction of dozens of homes in the West Midlands. In Wales, a major incident was declared near Llandovery, Carmarthenshire, leading to the evacuation of homes and road closures.

Firefighters in Hampshire have been battling a wildfire in the New Forest for six consecutive days, while Norfolk Fire and Rescue Service dealt with sixteen emergencies on Thursday afternoon, including a fire at Mousehold Heath. The emergency alert sent on Friday evening was the most extensive use of the system to date, according to the government.

The Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade (DBIST) has advised that disposable barbecues are not considered safe products in the current conditions and must not be made available for sale. Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds described the ban as "common-sense steps to protect lives and the environment." Retailers will receive guidance on the change, which will be kept under review.