Samantha Leathers

An emergency alert issued across England and Wales warns people not to use disposable barbecues, firepits, garden incinerators or fireworks while high temperatures, drought and wildfire risks persist. Non-disposable barbecues are not expressly banned but must never be left unattended and must be fully extinguished. The public is also urged to avoid open flames in parks, moorland and wooded areas, dispose of smoking materials safely, take litter home and call 999 immediately upon spotting a wildfire. Local authorities may impose additional restrictions through Public Space Protection Orders.

UK travellers visiting Portugal are advised to plan carefully when taking prescription medication. UK prescriptions are not recognised in Portugal, so tourists should carry enough medication in its original labelled packaging, keep a supply in hand luggage and seek help from a health centre or hospital if they need a repeat prescription. Travellers should also account for time differences and protect medications and medical equipment from Portugal’s heat and humidity, which can affect their effectiveness and increase the risk of heat-related illness.