People visiting local forests and natural areas this weekend are being urged to be vigilant over the high risk of fires.
The government has issued a ‘Condition Orange’ warning as current weather patterns create a serious risk of forest and gorse fires.
The warning will be in place throughout the weekend until Tuesday.
The alert said: “While fair weather is forecast over coming days, an increase in fire risk can be expected ahead of forecast rain fronts over the long weekend. This risk will peak on Sunday, April 4th.”
The Department of of Agriculture, Food and the Marine said the current ignition risks appear to be mainly associated with illegal burning of waste in high risk areas with public access.
There are also risks associated with the Easter Bank Holiday weekend and increased public activity in the countryside generally at this time.
Members of the public intending to visit forests and other recreational sites are reminded of the requirement to remain within 5km of their homes and to adhere to regulations introduced to limit the spread of Covid-19. Vehicles must not be parked at site entrances or impede emergency service access to forest roads.
All forest owners and managers are advised to prepare for likely outbreaks of fire.
Report Fires Immediately:
If you see a fire, do not delay; report it to the Fire and Emergency Services straight away. Do not wait for somebody else to make the call. Dial 999 or 112. You will not be billed by the fire service or local authority for making the call.
