The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) has issued its first fire warning of 2022.

The DAFM stated in its communication to farmers today (Monday, March 21) that, given the inherent fire risk in spring weather patterns and upland vegetation, a 'moderate fire risk' exists.

And that risk is deemed to exist in "all areas where hazardous fine fuels such as dead grasses, gorse and heather are present in proximity to forests and other assets" according to the DAFM.

Unless otherwise stated by the DAFM, this moderate-risk condition will remain the "minimum default status until the end of the main peak fire season in September".

The DAFM has advised forest owners and managers to check and update fire plans and other relevant contingencies such as insurance and helicopter contracts, etc.

All countryside users are asked to be vigilant, to report any suspicious activity to An Garda Siochána and to report any uncontrolled or unattended fires immediately to the fire and emergency services via 112/999.

A number of mitigation measures can be put in place now by forest owners and managers to help prevent loss or damage to forest resources through fire, according to the DAFM:

Landowners found burning illegally could face fines, imprisonment, and Single Farm Payment penalties, where applicable.

You will not be billed by the fire service or local authority for making the call.