The BBC's The One Show experienced an unexpected interruption during its 20th-anniversary broadcast on Friday evening when a government emergency wildfire alert sounded across mobile phones nationwide. The alert, issued at 7 p.m. BST, warned of a very high risk of wildfires and cautioned against any activities that could spark a blaze, such as barbecues, campfires, and fireworks.
Hosts Alex Jones and Roman Kemp appeared surprised as phones began ringing throughout the studio. Jones initially mistook the alert for a fire alarm, remarking, "I think that's the fire alarm... I'm doing my best to keep a straight face." Kemp also appeared confused, with the moment captured on camera. This marked the largest deployment of the emergency alert system since its introduction in 2023.
Following the initial confusion, Kemp clarified the nature of the alert to viewers. The message itself stated, "There is a very high risk of wildfires nationally. Residents, landowners and visitors should not undertake any activity that could start a fire, including disposable barbecues, fire pits, garden incinerators or fireworks." It emphasized that even small flames could rapidly escalate into major wildfires, endangering lives, homes, businesses, and emergency responders.
The alert was issued as Britain sweltered in a heatwave, with extreme weather conditions contributing to significant wildfire incidents. In Stourbridge, around 100 firefighters battled a blaze that spread across 500 acres, destroying 19 homes and damaging 18 others. Paramedics treated 54 people in the West Midlands for heat-related issues, with 19 admitted to hospital. The wildfires in the area resulted in six injuries, including three firefighters.
Andy Burnham, whose role in the UK government was not specified in the notes, shared a statement on X, formerly Twitter. He confirmed the alert was directly requested by Fire and Rescue Services due to the elevated wildfire risk. Burnham highlighted the devastating impact of these fires on communities and urged the public to take the alert seriously and adhere to the guidance. He also acknowledged the tireless efforts of firefighters working in challenging conditions.
Despite the technological disruption, The One Show continued its 20th-anniversary special, featuring guests such as Christine Lampard, Matt Baker, and Tom Grennan who joined Jones and Kemp to commemorate the show's history. The broadcast proceeded without further significant issues.