“We welcome the publication of the Government’s new statutory guidance on disposable barbecues, which is an important step in reducing the risk of fires in our countryside, green spaces and communities.
“So far this year we have already seen more wildfires in Hampshire and the Isle of Wight than we did in the whole of 2025.
“While these new temporary guidelines are a positive development, they relate only to the sale and distribution of disposable BBQs, they do not go as far as banning the *use of them.
“We would like to urge everyone who has already purchased a disposable BBQ to help us prevent fires in the countryside, parks and other open spaces by not using it.
“Disposable BBQs are just one potential ignition source, during periods of hot and dry weather, any heat source has the potential to start a fire.
“Just a single discarded cigarette or sunlight reflecting through a glass bottle can quickly escalate into a serious wildfire, causing significant damage to wildlife and the countryside, putting lives at risk, and placing further pressure on already stretched emergency services.”
Wildfire prevention advice:
- Do not light campfires
- Do not use barbecues in the countryside and if you have one at home ensure you have water at hand and light it away from vegetation, fences and sheds
- Take extreme care with smoking materials and make sure they are fully extinguished
- Do not light bonfires while conditions remain dry
- Take litter home
- Do not park on dry grass – the underside of your vehicle can be over 400°C.
*Note: Fires, BBQs (including purpose built and disposable BBQs), and outdoor cooking equipment (including stoves) are all banned within the New Forest National Park.
