The Forestry Department on Friday called on the pubic to take particular care to avoid setting fires in the countryside.
Noting that more people than usual were anticipated to be visiting the mountains and countryside as they take their summer leave over the coming week, the Department reminded that it is illegal to set a fire in a forest or within 2km from the edge of one without permission from the Fire Service.
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“This constitutes an offence which, according to the 2012 Forest Law is punishable by imprisonment for up to five years and/or a €25,000 fine,” the Department said.
They also called on people to take particularly care when using cutting and welding tools outdoors as these too could create sparks and start a fire.