Do you think it was right to use the emergency alert over wildfires? VOTE NOW

LAST night, a blaring emergency alert suddenly ripped through millions of phones to warn Brits of the soaring risk of wildfires. The government issued the notification warning people “not to light anything that could spark a fire, including barbecues, campfires, and fireworks” with the country in the middle of another heatwave. The alert pinged phones across the country at around 7pm yesterday, accompanied by a piercing siren designed to grab attention. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said that the request “came directly from Fire and Rescue Services” as wildfires and blazes have swept the country in recent weeks. Sign up for The Sun newsletter Thank you! The surge in fires came as the UK officially broke its 2026 record for the hottest day, with the mercury hitting 38.5C in Kew Gardens, London. A total of 19 homes were completely destroyed and 18 others damaged as families forced to evacuate as the fire spread across Stourbridge, West Midlands, Thursday afternoon. However, some Brits were left furious at the alert, as one raged online: “What a misuse of the system. You hear the emergency alert klaxon and you think Putin’s finally launched the missiles, and then you check your phone and it’s the government asking you to not have a barbecue.” So, do you think it was right for the government to use the emergency alert over wildfires? Have your say in our exclusive poll. Fill out the form below for a chance to win a £100 voucher. Love to debate? Join Sun Club for just £1.99 a month for the boldest opinion on the issues shaping Britain. Comment now