The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine has today issued a Condition Red Forest Fire Danger Rating Notice in advance of further heatwave forecasts for the remainder of the week.
Condition Red is the highest level and is rare in Ireland. The Department has also highlighted the current extreme danger to resources and public safety arising from vegetation fires, especially gorse, and particularly in proximity to heavily populated areas.
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine recommends forest owners act immediately to implement fire prevention plans and be prepared for the likelihood of fire outbreaks on or around their property.
The general public should heed the following advice:
- 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 under any circumstances.
- Gather all family/group members and move to a safe fuel-free location such as a car park, upwind of the fire.
- Telephone Fire and Rescue Services via 999 or 112 and report the fire and its location.
- Evacuate if instructed to do so. Co-operate with all Emergency Service Instructions.
