Weymouth to proceed with fireworks despite wildfire alerts

Weymouth Town Council has announced that its traditional summer firework display will proceed despite a nationwide emergency alert warning of a ‘very high risk of wildfires’ across England and Wales.

To mitigate risks, the council is taking extra precautions, including moving the launching barge further out to sea. Officials stated they have consulted with the Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service and their professional pyrotechnics contractor to ensure the display is safe and contained. Council leader David Civil noted that while the decision might not be universally popular, the council believes the event can proceed with appropriate risk management in place.

The decision follows a major government alert sent to tens of millions of mobile phones, advising against any activities that could spark fires, such as barbecues or private fireworks, due to drought and heatwave conditions.