IFA warns forest owners to be extra vigilant as govt issues orange fire alert

The Irish Farmers Association (IFA) is warning farmers to be extra vigilant this week to protect forests from fire damage. 

It comes after the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) issued a Condition Orange High Fire Risk alert this week (April 18), which is set to remain in place in all areas until Saturday (April 22) unless there is significant rainfall. 

IFA Farm Forestry Chair, Jason Fleming, cautioned that most fires spread from adjoining land into the forest. 

He said, "It is important that farmers assess the risk to their forest and make sure that the firebreaks are maintained. A firebreak should consist of a six-metre-wide fuel free zone, typically around the boundary of the forest." 

He encouraged farmers to review the fire plan for their forest or to prepare one, especially if the forest is in a high-risk area. 

He continued: "If you do not have [a] fire plan, I would suggest that you prepare one with a map that identifies potential risks, assembly points, access and escape routes, reservoirs or water points and firebreaks. The plan should also contain contact details for the local fire station, local Garda station, and Forester.

"Forest fires can cause devastation and significant financial loss to farmers. Under the Afforestation scheme, farmers are obliged to replant where a forest is damaged by fire, so it is important that farmers consider the financial consequences of a fire and make sure there is adequate insurance cover in place." 

#FireWarning

Condition Orange - high fire risk

We have issued an Orange Forest Fire Warning arising from weather patterns and expected level of risk

Warning in place until 6pm, Saturday, April 22

— Dept of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (@agriculture_ie) April 18, 2023

The DAFM is asking the public to keep the following in mind: 

• Do not light fires in or near woodland. You will be responsible if fire spreads from a campfire or barbeque. Use only designated barbeque points where available. Thoroughly soak BBQ embers after use and make sure that they are extinguished completely.

• Do not block forest entrances or roads when parking - access may be required by the fire service or forestry personnel in the event of an emergency, their job will be made easier if the roads are clear.

• Be prepared – Many hikers, cyclists, etc will carry mobile telephone, maps and GPS. These can be used to provide very accurate location information if you have to report a fire incident to the emergency services.

• If you see a fire, report it immediately to the emergency services - Dial 999 or 112. Give clear details as regards location and any other useful information such as the size of the fire, wind direction, proximity to dwellings or forestry etc. You will not be billed by the fire service or local authority for making the call.

• Report any illegal and suspicious activity to the Gardaí. Dangerous or irresponsible burning activity should not be tolerated in our communities. Note that the burning of growing vegetation on uncultivated land between 1 March and 31 August each year is prohibited by law.

• Do not approach fires - Wildfires can be extremely dangerous and can rapidly change direction and behaviour. Avoid traversing uphill above fires – in suitable conditions, fire can travel uphill faster than you can run. Smoke can be highly disorienting and damaging to health. Avoid passing through smoke.

• Do not attempt to extinguish fires yourself. Fire fighting is dangerous work and should be left to suitably equipped and trained personnel. If you see a fire, call the fire service and retire to a safe distance. 

For more information on preparing a Forest Fire Plan, the IFA has developed an information note here.