The First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth, has urged retailers to halt the sale of disposable barbecues due to heightened wildfire risks this summer. This call aligns with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s request for a voluntary suspension of sales during extreme heat conditions. The appeal comes as the UK faces record temperatures, prompting discussions at a recent emergency Cobra meeting.
Ap Iorwerth emphasized the dangers of using barbecues in dry areas, stating that they pose significant fire risks. He noted that some retailers have already responded positively to calls for withdrawal, adhering to a framework established in 2023, which allows for sales suspension during declared extreme heat events.
The guidance from the British Retail Consortium encourages retailers to act on reasonable requests from local councils to prevent potential wildfires. Burnham highlighted that single-use barbecues have been linked to recent fires, reinforcing the need for immediate action.
Looking ahead, there are discussions about a potential summer ban on these products to mitigate risks. Ap Iorwerth expressed his commitment to reducing wildfire hazards, stating that removing disposable barbecues from the market could significantly help in this effort.
Source: BBC News
