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Emergencies: Mobile Phones

Asked by David SimmondsConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 8 September 2026UIN 22077

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what representations have been received to her department from the National Fire Chiefs Council on the nationwide UK Emergency Alert issued on 14 August 2026.

Answered by Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

All Emergency Alerts are sent in conjunction with agencies or public bodies that are responding to emergencies. The decision to issue this alert was not taken lightly. It was made in direct cooperation with the National Fire Chiefs Council.

The alert was issued during a period where there were 43 active fires and 11 major incidents nationwide. It was sent to around 55 million mobile phones across England and Wales, providing advice on steps people could take to help prevent wildfires. It formed part of the Government's work with fire and rescue services and other partners to raise awareness of the heightened risk of wildfires.

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