DRY lands around make Donegal a tinderbox for wildfires with an orange warning in place.
The Orange Fire Danger Notice from the Department of Agriculture, is in effect until 12pm on Friday.
Donegal Fire Service and the Irish Farmers’ Association have both issued reminders to the public to beware of dangers.
Their warnings follow ongoing emergencies in Slievenamon, Co Tipperary, where a ranging wildfire yesterday spread to an adjacent Coillte forest, and in Co Kerry’s Killarney National Park where 25 hectares are threatened by fire.
Fire warning notice. Photo: Donegal Fire Service.
Donegal Fire Service posted a fire warning and said: “Arising from continued dry weather patterns, a high fire risk is deemed to exist in all areas where flammable vegetation such as dead grasses and heather and gorse exist.”
A spokesperson for the Irish Farmers’ Association said: “Prevention is the best defence against forest fires.
“During this fire danger notice, it is advised not to have barbecues in open spaces, including disposable barbecues. Dispose of cigarettes carefully to avoid inadvertently starting a fire.”
The public is advised to report fires by calling 112 or 999 and follow emergency instructions.