DAFM high fire risk warning extended into next week
The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has extended a 'Condition Orange' high fire risk warning to next Tuesday (August 4).
DAFM said that the warning is effective from today (July 29) until noon on Tuesday (August 4).
The department has urged the public to "be prepared, be vigilant and to stamp out forest fires".
DAFM has highlighted that because of current weather patterns a high fire risk exists in all areas where flammable vegetation such as dead grasses and heather and gorse exist
"Wildfires can have catastrophic impacts on upland habitats and rural communities, putting homes, property and lives at risk and diverting emergency services from their main tasks," it outlined.
According to DAFM gorse will burn readily in all seasons and although fires occur throughout the year, the risk is greatest during dry spells.
"The risk increases with decreasing humidity and increasing wind speed.
"Most people significantly underestimate the intense flammability of vegetation and the speed at which a relatively small fire can become out of control.
"Fire risk substantially increases with the presence of people who are untrained, ill prepared, uninformed, or inexperienced in managing a controlled fire," DAFM added.
Wildfires
Ireland, Italy, France and Spain have all seen the devastating impact of wildfires in recent weeks.
Fire crews have been battling wildfires at Tipperary's Slievenamon and in the Comeragh Mountains.
DAFM has warned the public not to light fires in or near woodland.
It has also urged people that if they see a fire to report it immediately to the emergency services by dialing 999 or 112.
The department has also appealed to the public to report any illegal and suspicious activity to the Gardai.
"Dangerous or irresponsible burning activity should not be tolerated in our communities.
"The burning of growing vegetation on uncultivated land between March 1 and August 31 each year is prohibited by law," it added.
