The Department of Agriculture has issued an ‘Orange’ Fire Danger Notice for all areas where hazardous fuels such as gorse, heather, dried grasses and other vegetation exist.
The notice is in effect until 12 noon on Monday, 12th June.
“We have issued an Orange Forest Fire Warning arising from weather patterns and expected level of risk,” a spokesperson for the department said.
“Do not cause or light fires in and around forests or open land. Dispose of smoking materials responsibly. Do not attempt to intervene or fight fires. Gather everybody and move to a safe fuel-free location such as a car park, upwind of fire.”
Donegal County Council also wishes to appeal to landowners and members of the public to exercise caution and to take all necessary measures to prevent the occurrence of wildfires.
Landowners and members of the public are urged to be vigilant and to report any uncontrolled or unattended fires immediately to the fire service by dialling 999 or 112.
The council is also urging landowners and members of the public not to engage in activities that could cause wildfires.
Householders or building owners in areas susceptible to wildfire are advised to remove or cut back any vegetation in the immediate vicinity of their house, building or oil tank to prevent wildfires damaging or destroying their property. Cleared areas should be maintained free of vegetation and combustible material.
“Donegal County Council would also like to remind landowners and members of the public that, under the Wildlife Acts, 1976 and 2000, it is an offence to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated between 1st day of March and 31st day of August in any year. Landowners are also reminded that under the Waste Management Regulations 2023 the burning of agricultural waste is currently prohibited.”
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