People are being asked to refrain from bringing motorbikes and quads onto bogs due to risk of fire.
With an Orange level Fire Risk warning in place nationwide this week, Bord na Móna is reminding people in the countryside to take extra care. Rural peatlands and areas with a lot of gorse are exposed to a higher risk of fire at this time.
A statement from the board called on people not to use recreational vehicles: “We are aware that there has been an increase in unauthorised use of bogs by people using scrambler and quad bikes. Heat from the exhausts of these vehicles can set dry scrub alight and has been the likely cause of a number of recent bog fires.”
Bord na Móna and the Fire Service reminds the public that it is illegal to set fires in growing vegetation between March 1st and August 28th.
“Fires in the countryside can start easily and spread rapidly and pose a threat to people’s lives, homes and property. These fires are also responsible for the deaths of many species of wildlife.
“During the current health emergency people should be especially aware that these fires are an additional cause of stress and worry for homeowners and a drain on the resources of our emergency services.”
Bord na Móna is asking people to:
– Refrain from bringing motorbikes, quads or similar recreational vehicles onto peatlands.
– report anti-social behaviour to An Garda Síochána
– Not to light fires in the countryside,
– To take care when disposing of lit cigarettes or other similar materials.
Anyone witnessing a fire on any area of bog or peatland is asked to immediately alert An Garda Síochána and the Fire Service.
