Fire Department Bans Open Fires Until October 31 Amid Rising Fire Risks

In a statement titled “Taking Precautions on Time is Easier than Extinguishing a Fire,” the Fire Department emphasized the importance of immediate action if signs of fire or smoke are detected, advising to contact ALO 199 Fire Emergency Line, ALO 177 Forest Fire Emergency Line, or 155 Police Emergency Line.

Preventive Measures:

The Fire Department provided the following guidelines:

• From May 1 to October 31, starting any kind of fire, even for cleaning purposes, is strictly prohibited. It is important to remember that fires in unsuitable areas can quickly get out of control and cause wildfires. Compliance with legal regulations regarding fire is mandatory.
• Ensure cigarette butts are completely extinguished before disposing of them. Do not throw them on roadsides, forest areas, other lands, trash bins, or on any flammable materials.
• Report any potentially hazardous conditions such as transformer stations, electrical poles, electrical wires that could touch each other, or tree branches that might fall on electrical wires during bad weather to the 188 Electrical Fault Emergency Line.
• Avoid plugging high-power-consuming devices (such as irons, refrigerators, and hair dryers) into multi-socket adapters, as this can increase the risk of fire.
• Trim any tree branches touching electrical wires and ensure the electricity is turned off before trimming. Clear dry vegetation beneath and keep fire extinguishing equipment on hand.
• If you suspect a gas leak in your home or workplace, do not use electrical switches or devices that could generate sparks (such as mobile phones or flashlights). Turn off the electricity from the circuit breaker, open doors and windows, and use a broom to ventilate the area by sweeping the gas outside.
• Regular maintenance, servicing, exhaust, and tire checks on private, public transport, fuel-carrying, and agricultural vehicles are crucial to prevent fuel leaks, short circuits, and spark-induced fires.
• Keep fire extinguishers in your vehicles and homes, and learn how to use them to prevent potential fires from spreading.
• Immediately contact the 199 Fire Emergency Line, 177 Forest Fire Emergency Line, or 155 Police Emergency Line if you see signs of smoke or fire.

The Fire Department reiterated the importance of these measures to prevent the occurrence and spread of fires during the high-risk period.