6 July 2018 latest news

Coillte Extends Public Warning to Exercise Extreme Care as National Forest Fire Warning Extended into Next Week

Aerial picture of forest fire in the Slieve Bloom mountains

Friday 6th July 2018:  The Department of Agriculture has extended the RED alert warning for forest fires to remain in place until Wednesday Friday 11th July due to current dry conditions and forecast high temperatures.

The Department advise 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.

The Department also advise that there appears to be a strong correlation between fire activity and illegal dumping and other illegal activities on public lands in recent days and an increased vigilance by land managers, landowners and the public is advised.

 

Coillte is re-iterating its appeals to the public to be extra vigilant towards the dangers of wildfires especially over the weekend period as the dry weather is forecast to continue into next week.

The public are asked to be mindful that responsible behaviour, including acting safely and responsibly in rural environments, can significantly reduce the chance of wildfire starting. Coillte also ask that you report any suspicious activity regarding the setting of fires to the local Garda Síochána.

Coillte has been fighting a number of forest fires around the country the largest of which is in the Slieve Bloom mountains.

 

Coillte recommend the following steps to prevent forest fires at this time

  1. DO NOT light fires and be careful of all activity involving fires
  2. REPORT any suspicious activity you may observe
  3. REPORT any forest fires you see to local fire brigade
  4. DO NOT approach forest fires under any circumstance, they are extremely dangerous
  5. KEEP access points and forest entrances clear for emergency services

 

 

//Ends

Media Contact: Páraic Gallagher / Stephen Fitzpatrick Q4PR – 01 475 1444

 

About Coillte

Coillte is a commercial forestry company, owned by the State, that manages approximately 7% of the country’s land. Coillte operate three strong businesses from this land – their core forestry business, a wood panels manufacturing business MEDITE SMARTPLY and a land solutions business. Coillte export to over 30 countries worldwide and in the financial year 31 December 2017 generated EBITDA of €85.2 million. Coillte’s vision is to be the best forestry and land solutions company in Europe. To find out more visit www.coillte.ie

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