Under certain circumstances, and based mainly on tradition, the burning of land to clear scrub and other unwanted vegetation has become an accepted practice. Gardaí want to emphasise the threat that land and forest fires present to people’s lives and property. It is the responsibility of every member of the community, particularly those living near wooded areas, to comply with the legislation and undertake burning in a controlled manner. In addition, members of the community should make themselves aware of the necessary precautions relating to controlled burning by contacting the local fire services for advice or visit www.garda.ie Any person intending to burn within one mile of a wooded area must inform their local Garda station in writing, no less than seven days in advance. Anyone who undertakes burning in such an area without notifying An Garda Síochána is committing an offence.
Superintendent Fergus Healy said: “The advice is simple. If you intend to light a fire on your premises, notify us. Be responsible and take the necessary precautions. And if you see a fire, contact the emergency services immediately by calling 112 or 999.”
