The Fire Service has warned that the risk of fire outbreak and spread is extremely high due to prolonged elevated temperatures, urging the public to exercise particular caution.
The service has issued an urgent appeal for people to avoid activities that could potentially cause fires, including the use of tools or agricultural machinery that generate heat, sparks or flames, such as grinders, oxyacetylene welding and electric welding, and the disposal of lit cigarettes or other hot objects in open areas.
Additional care must be taken with preventive measures to avoid fires caused by exhaust fumes from various generators or water pumps in outdoor areas.
The Fire Service reminds the public that burning grass, prunings, and refuse is prohibited and that lighting fires anywhere is also banned, except for food preparation within specially permitted and designated areas.
In areas where heatwave conditions with winds and wind gusts are observed according to the meteorological bulletin, increased and extended patrols will be conducted on the Chief Fire Officer’s instructions, both ground and aerial patrols with loaded firefighting aircraft.
The Fire Service is in contact and coordination with the Police, Department of Forests and all suppression services regarding this matter.
Anyone who notices smoke or fire is urgently requested to immediately inform the Fire Service through the emergency number 112 or the Department of Forests on 1407, reporting the exact location where the fire started for immediate and effective response.
Additionally, in cases where actions are observed that may indicate malicious or deliberate fire-starting, people should immediately inform the Police and Fire Service.
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