First things first, I initially received the alert in Welsh. Even though I live in Wales, I'm one of the 82.7% the 2021 Census counted as being a non-Welsh speaker. It was pointless sending the alert to me in a, as ironic as this will come across, 'foreign' language.
I received the English version of the message six minutes later.
Yes - SIX MINUTES!
That's not good enough. Not for what has evidently been classed as an 'emergency' by the Government.
Was it really an emergency?
I also found the content of the message to skip heavily in the 'this isn't an emergency' box.
We were told there is a 'heavy risk of wildfires'. We knew that already. They then listed activities that could start a fire. Things we already know such as disposable barbecues, garden incinerators and fireworks.
Why didn't it mention arsonists? They start fires, too.
Was it okay to send an alert in this manner?
Overall, I strongly believe last night's communication was a misuse of what the emergency alerts were designed for. To alert the public of hazardous weather or, dare I say it, war.
A modern day air raid warning, if you will. Not a lecture on what causes fires. Those could easily be sent via text message. The point still gets out there in that method.
What the alert 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, firepits, garden incinerators, or fireworks. Even a small flame can rapidly develop into major wildfires placing lives, homes, businesses and emergency responders at risk.
Follow official updates and report signs of fire immediately by calling 999. Search gov.uk/alerts for more information.
As you can see, the English version of the message arrived six minutes after the Welsh version.
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