[PIO] Increased risk of fires due to strong winds

The Forestry Department of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment announces that due to the very strong to strong winds, with gusts of up to 7 Beaufort, which are expected to prevail today, the risk of forest fires will be increased. In the event of a fire, firefighting efforts will be extremely difficult to impossible if not suppressed in the initial stages.

The public should exercise extreme caution and avoid actions and activities that may cause a fire.

The following are emphasized:

1. Avoid using tools that produce heat or sparks, such as emery wheels, welding and soldering. It is stressed once again that the use of these tools in an area with dry grasses means mathematically causing a fire.
2. The burning of grass, debris and concrete is prohibited.
3. Dumping of cigarette butts is prohibited
4. Lighting a fire for the preparation or heating of food is ONLY allowed inside the grills located in the picnic areas.
5. Attention must also be paid to precautionary measures to avoid fire from the exhaust of various power generators or water pumps in the open air.

It is also stressed that it is prohibited to light a fire within the state forest or within 2km of its edges without a permit and that it is an offence which, according to the Forestry Act 2012, is punishable by imprisonment of up to 10 years or a fine of up to €50,000.00 or both penalties together.

Anyone who notices smoke or fire, in or near the forest, is requested to inform without delay the nearest Forestry Station or to call 1407 or 112 (Fire Service).

(MB/SX)
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