Question to the Home Office:
To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to undertake a programme to educate people about (1) the risks posed by, and (2) ways in which to prevent, wildfires, particularly those associated with barbecues.
During the pandemic the Home Office has collaborated with the National Fire Chiefs Council through the Fire Kills campaign to raise awareness of pertinent fire safety messages. This has included messaging on outdoor and barbecue safety. Campaign material has been developed and made available online and to fire and rescue services to support local interventions.
The Department of Food and Rural Affairs has engaged with the National Park Authorities and has been analysing their wildfire preparations to understand National Park Authorities capacity for dealing with the current challenges. It will consider what further actions are needed and review the current guidance on handling of wildfire risks from portable barbecues.