They need your help to stamp out forest fires.
An orange fire warning has been issued for Ireland as the risk of gorse and forest fires increases over the coming days.
Arising from preceding drought conditions, a High Fire Risk remains in all areas where hazardous fine fuels such as gorse, heather, dried grasses and other dead vegetation exist.
Fire risk condition is likely to be moderated on a localised basis by scattered light rain, and higher ambient humidity levels in many areas. However, a short term increase in fire risk values is likely on Thursday, 26 July.
The warning was issued on Wednesday and, pending rainfall, will remain active until 12pm on Monday, 30 July.
In a statement, the Department of Agriculture warned: “Highest ignition risks remain in public amenity areas in proximity to urban centres.
“Vigilance is also required in relation to open land at risk from illegal burning of waste and accidental ignition sources arising from recreational and agricultural activities.”
“A protracted, on-going fire risk is likely due to desiccation and curing of fine fuels arising from recent drought conditions. These fuels can regain flammability in a short time following light rain. Extreme caution is particularly required where cured shrub fuels like gorse are concerned.”
Soil moisture deficits remain well above 80 in most eastern areas, indicating continued reduced water availability to vegetation on all soil types, particularly shallow rooting vegetation, and lower live fuel moisture contents in key high fire risk vegetation types.
Forest owners, farmers and other members of the public are asked to be extremely vigilant regarding fire activity, to report any suspicious or illegal activity to the Gardaí and to report all fires immediately to the Fire and Emergency Services via 112/999.
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