Filenews 31 October 2025
The Department of Forests of the Ministry of Agriculture, Rural Development and Environment warns that the risk of causing and spreading fires remains very high, due to the prolonged drought prevailing in Cyprus.
The warning was issued ahead of the start of the hunting season next Sunday, as dry weather conditions significantly increase the likelihood of fires in forest and rural areas.
At the same time, it makes a very warm appeal to hunters who will venture into the countryside and forests, to be very careful during their excursions and to completely avoid lighting fires in unauthorized places, or throwing cigarette butts and lit matches.
In a statement, the Department reminds that "in recent years, fires have destroyed large areas both in forests and in the countryside, which were an important habitat for prey and fauna in general, with serious effects on the natural environment".
He also emphasizes that the disposal of garbage and empty cartridges into the environment "constitutes serious pollution and that this is also prohibited by the 'Protection and Management of Wild Birds and Game Law'". Therefore, hunters are asked not to dispose of garbage and collect the empty cartridges.
The Department calls on those who notice smoke or fire, in or near the forest, to inform the nearest Forest Station without any delay or to call immediately 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112 (Fire Service).
