Warning Effective From 1200hrs 10/08/2022 

Effective Period Expires 1200hrs 16/08/2022 

 

Arising from current weather patterns a high fire risk is deemed to exist in all areas where hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse exist. A high-pressure system currently positioned over Ireland will influence high air temperatures, low daytime humidity and light windspeeds during the rest of this week and into the weekend. Recent similar hot weather phases have seen fire activity firmly associated with public recreation activities.

 

Members of the public intending to visit forests and other recreational sites are reminded to adhere to regulations regarding fire use. Forest visitors should not use barbeques or open fires at any stage. Vehicles must not be parked at site entrances or impede emergency service access to forest roads.

 

Fire risk is expected to peak over the coming weekend 13th/14th August. Where fires occur, fire behaviour is likely to be influenced by light windspeeds in the 5-10kmh region. Higher windspeeds may be experienced at times in coastal areas. Fire behaviour will be moderated by live fuel availability however live fuel moisture levels in key fuels may degrade over time.

 

Members of the public and visitors to recreational areas should cooperate with all requests regarding fire safety, obey all relevant bye-laws and be considerate in parking vehicles so as not to impede access by emergency vehicles.

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.

 

https://www.met.ie/forecasts/farming/graphs/fire-weather-index

https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/01773-fire-management