On Tuesday, August 13, the forest department issued a red alert due to the high likelihood of forest fires and warned citizens about the high likelihood of fires.
Under level red conditions, lighting fires without a special permit is a serious offense that can result in a prison sentence of up to ten years and/or fines of up to €50,000.
The department clarified that lighting fires for cooking is permitted only in specially designated areas at picnic areas.
The public is urged to exercise extreme caution and avoid any activity that could cause a fire, including the use of tools or farm equipment that may produce heat, sparks or flames.
If smoke or fire is detected, citizens are advised to immediately report it by calling 1407 or 112.