Co-operation sought to combat fire risk over weekend

Bord na Mona is asking everyone to refrain from lighting fires outdoors and to take care when disposing of lit cigarettes this weekend, particularly as the country is experiencing a dry spell of weather that has left the countryside exposed to a high risk of fire.

Over 60 Bord na Mona employees have volunteered for a fire watch programme to help with the early detection and combatting of countryside fires.

People are also being reminded that it’s illegal to set fires in growing vegetation between March 1 and August 28.

Fires in the countryside can start easily and spread rapidly, and are responsible for the deaths of many species of wildlife as well as posing a threat to people, homes and property.

The Irish countryside is currently exposed to a high risk of fire due to the recent dry spell, and Bord na Mona say this risk is exacerbated during bank holiday weekends when more people enjoy outdoor activities.

The body is also asking people who witness a fire on any area of bog or peatland to immediately alert the gardai and fire service.