High risk of fires in the countryside

Ireland is currently experiencing a warm and dry spell of weather that has left the countryside exposed to a high risk of fire.

Fire puts the lives of the people who have to fight them at risk, as well as causing major damage to property, wildlife and habitats. Bord na Móna and the Fire Service reminds the public that it is illegal to set fires in growing vegetation between
1 March to 28 August 2014.

Fires in the countryside can start easily, spread rapidly and pose a threat to people’s lives, homes and property. These fires are also responsible for the deaths of many species of wildlife.

To deal with this risk, over 60 Bord na Móna employees have volunteered for a fire watch programme to help with the early detection and combating of countryside fires.

Bord na Móna would also like to remind everyone enjoying the outdoors to refrain from lighting fires and to take care when disposing of lit cigarettes or other similar materials.

We would also ask that anyone witnessing a fire on any area of bog or peatland to immediately alert the Gardaí and the Fire Service.

Bord na Móna and the Fire Service would like to thank you for your co-operation on this matter.