The public has been warned about the dangers of wildfires by the Department of Agriculture, Food & the Marine, who have extended their ‘extreme risk’ warning until Monday.
Arising from the current period of very high temperatures and effective drought conditions, an extreme fire risk is deemed to exist in all areas where hazardous fuels exist.
The Dept of Agriculture says that this meteorological risk is further compounded by high levels of ignitions activity and observed fire behaviour associated with current weather conditions.
The Department of Agriculture advises at this point that all outdoor use of fires, barbeques and other open ignition sources be avoided on forest lands and in other high risk areas until further notice.
Extreme caution is also advised with respect to hay making and the use of machinery and other agricultural activity that may also present a risk of fire in dry vegetation on cultivated land types in current conditions.
Pending a significant change in meteorological conditions this risk condition will remain in place until 1200hrs on Monday, July 2nd, 2018, and will be reviewed again at that point.
Advice to the General Public/Forest Visitors
Where fire outbreaks occur at or near recreational areas the following actions should be taken by visitors in the interests of safety.
1. Do not light fires in and around forests or open land.
2. Do not attempt to intervene or fight fires under any circumstances.
3. Gather all family/group members and move to a safe fuel-free location such as a car park, upwind of the fire.
4. Telephone Fire and Rescue Services via 112 and report the fire and its location.
5. Evacuate if instructed to do so, and cooperate with all Emergency Service Instructions.
