23/06/2026
Urgent Safety Message: Red Heat Alert Issued Across Parts of the UK
As the weather starts to draw people outdoors, the National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) is urging people to take extra care as a rare Met Office red extreme heat warning comes into force across parts of southern England and Wales, with temperatures expected to reach up to 38°C.
NFCC has highlighted the very real risks extreme heat presents.
We have already seen the tragic impact of recent hot weather, with 19 lives lost to accidental drowning incidents in just one week, and over 200 water-related fatalities recorded last year. As temperatures rise, so too does the risk - particularly around open water where cold water shock remains a serious and often underestimated danger.
At the same time, prolonged dry conditions are increasing the likelihood of wildfires, with over 300 incidents already recorded across England and Wales this year. Many of these are preventable and linked to everyday activities such as disposable BBQs and discarded smoking materials.
Help spread the word about water safety advice:
- Speak to young people about the dangers of open water.
- Swim in supervised locations and do not jump into water to cool off or enter the water if you been drinking alcohol.
- Never enter the water to attempt a rescue – instead call 999 immediately.
- If spending time in, on or around water, install location apps such as what3 words so if an incident should happen emergency services know where you are.
- Make sure you know how to help yourself and other people in the event of a water-related emergency.
You can read more here:
https://nfcc.org.uk/fire-chiefs-issue-urgent-safety-warning-as-parts-of-the-uk-face-rare-red-heat-alert/
