The Department of Agriculture has issued an updated fire risk warning this Tuesday.
We’re a bit more accustomed to warnings about wind and rain in Ireland, but this week is an exception.
With temperatures bursting into the 30s, the Department of Agriculture has issued a “Condition RED — Extreme Fire Risk” warning, with the public advised to take immediate action based on their advice.
An Orange warning had been in effect since last Thursday, but recent developments have seen the risk increase.
The Department of Agriculture has advised that “Landowners and managers should ensure that the use of open fires, barbecues and other potential ignition sources does not take place in forest lands and other public areas during the current heatwave period. The highest levels of vigilance and cooperation with neighbouring landowners are required at this point.”
The warning further advises the following tips.
- Do not cause or light fires in and around forests or open land.
- Dispose of smoking materials responsibly.
- Do not attempt to intervene or fight fires under any circumstances.
- Gather all family/group members and move to a safe fuel-free location such as a car park, upwind of the fire.
- Telephone Fire and Rescue Services via 112 and report the fire and its location.
- Evacuate if instructed to do so. Co-operate with all Emergency Service Instructions.
@agriculture_ie issue a Condition Red Forest Fire Danger Rating Notice in advance of further heatwave forecasts for the remainder of the week. Condition Red is the highest level and is rare in Ireland https://t.co/Z2B2vTjeC7 pic.twitter.com/v8a7ihM6uY
— Dept of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (@agriculture_ie) June 26, 2018
The warning also notes that “the farming community are requested to be particularly vigilant with regard to the use of machinery around hay meadows, and to refrain from the use of fire on cultivated farmland.”
The current warning will be in effect until midnight on Friday.
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