On the occasion of the mass excursion of citizens to the countryside and forests for the Fifteenth of August holidays, the competent authorities are sounding the alarm about the risk of forest fires caused by human activities, calling on citizens to be more vigilant and responsible.
As announced by the Department of Forests, the Service is in full readiness to welcome the public who will visit the country's forests on the festive days, ensuring the safe enjoyment of nature. At the same time, the Department makes a very strong appeal for respect for the natural environment, underlining that fires due to human actions are a serious threat over time.
Particular emphasis is placed on the use of charcoal for grilling. Citizens are asked to light coals exclusively in specially designed and safe areas, to avoid lighting wood and to make sure that each fire is completely extinguished after the end of the grilling. Also, owners of holiday homes who outsource yard cleaning to third parties must prevent them from burning grass or branches.
The Department of Forests reminds that from June 1 to September 30, the use of tools or machinery that cause heat, flame or spark within a state forest or in a zone two kilometers from it is prohibited, without the written permission of the Director. It is strictly forbidden to dispose of lit cigarette butts in forest and rural areas, while lighting a fire is allowed only in specially designed picnic areas. Dumping garbage in the forest is prohibited.
In case someone notices smoke or fire, they should contact 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112 (Fire Service) immediately.
The announcement concludes with the message "The protection of forests is the responsibility of all of us".
