Clare’s Crime Prevention Officer is warning that wildfires can have catastrophic impacts on upland habitats and rural communities, putting homes, property and lives at risk.
It’s an offence under Section 40 of the Wildlife Act to burn vegetation from March 1st to August 31st in any year and anyone caught doing so could face hefty fines or a prison sentence.
Sergeant Catriona Holohan is urging people not to light fires in or near woodland and that if fire spreads from a campfire of barbeque, those who lit the fire will be held responsible.
Sergeant Holohan, who’s based at the Crime Prevention Office in Ennis, has issued the following advice:
“Everybody has a part to play in protecting our rural landscapes, communities, habitats and forest resources from the threats posed by wildfire.
“Thoroughly soak BBQ embers after use and make sure that they are extinguished completely.
“Do not block forest entrances or roads when parking – access may be required by the fire service or forestry personnel in the event of an emergency, their job will be made easier if the roads are clear.
“Be prepared; many hikers, cyclists, etc. will carry mobile telephone, maps and GPS. These can be used to provide very accurate location information if you have to report a fire incident to the emergency services.
“If you see a fire, report it immediately to the emergency services – Dial 999 or 112. Give clear details as regards location and any other useful information such as the size of the fire, wind direction, proximity to dwellings or forestry etc. The fire service or local authority for making the call will not bill you.
“Report any illegal and suspicious activity to the Gardaí. Dangerous or irresponsible burning activity should not be tolerated in our communities. Note that law prohibits the burning of growing vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August each year.
“Do not approach fires – Wildfires can be extremely dangerous and can rapidly change direction and behaviour. Avoid traversing uphill above fires – in suitable conditions; fire can travel uphill faster than you can run. Smoke can be highly disorienting and damaging to health. Avoid passing through smoke.
“Do not attempt to extinguish fires yourself. Firefighting is dangerous work and should be left to suitably equipped and trained personnel. If you see a fire, call the fire service and retire to a safe distance.
“During fire-fighting operations, please do not fly drones in the vicinity of fires or firefighting operations, as doing so could endanger aerial operations, flight crews and individuals on the ground. Drones flying near aircraft are a serious hazard and can hamper firefighting efforts,” Segeant Holohan concluded.
