In June and July, we saw an increase of forest fires in our province and Mugla province which sadly led to the death of one firefighter.
Wildfires are mostly caused by humans and these preventable wildfires threaten lives, property and our precious natural resources. It is up to us, the induvial who play a valuable role in preventing wildfires.
Forests are amazing places covering almost a third of the Earth’s land. They are home to a huge variety of plants and animals, providing them with food, water and shelter. Our forests are unbelievably valuable. Not only are they places of beauty and outdoor fun, but we also rely on trees for fuel, food, raw materials and medicine. Even more importantly, trees and plants in the forest make sure that the Earth’s temperature is liveable and that we have enough oxygen to breathe.
It is important to pay attention to weather and drought conditions and to avoid any activity that involves fire or sparks when it is hot and windy. Pay close attention to local restrictions and use your common sense when lighting a barbecue or campfire.
When building a campfire, select a location away from flammable materials such as logs, brush or decaying leaves and needles. Cut your wood in short lengths and place in the cleared area. Never leave your fire and extinguish it completely when finished. The rule of thumb is to make sure that your campfire is cold to the touch before leaving.
Another tip to remember is that your exhaust can reach temperatures of 1,000+ degrees, so, avoid driving and parking over dry grass.
Sometimes, people burn trash, leaves, agricultural waste, or other materials. If you plan to burn debris on your private property, make sure you have water nearby (such as a garden hose) and never burn anything if it is windy.
Finally … Never throw lit cigarettes, smoking materials, or matches out of your car, or on the ground. Cigarettes and matches both have enough heat to create a spark. Make sure any cigarettes are completely extinguished before you throw them in the trash. Many wildfires can start by carelessly flicking a cigarette butt on the ground, especially during dangerously dry conditions.
