The Civil Protection Department has said that behind every fire are firefighters working in extreme heat and exceptionally demanding conditions.
It warned that ”Malta continues to experience very high temperatures, significantly increasing the risk of grass and countryside fires.”
In recent days, CPD said that its crews have responded to several outdoor fires, ”working tirelessly to protect lives, property and our natural environment.”
CPD appealed to everyone to help reduce the risk:
Never discard cigarette butts from vehicles or onto the ground.
Do not leave glass bottles or other litter in fields or countryside areas.
Landowners are encouraged to safely clear dry grass and overgrown vegetation where possible.
Do not light fires or burn garden waste. In these conditions, even a small fire can quickly spread beyond control.
Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass. Hot exhaust systems and catalytic converters can ignite vegetation.
Dispose of waste responsibly and never leave combustible materials in the countryside.
If you see smoke or fire, call 112 immediately and, if safe, provide the exact location.
The Civil Protection Department concluded by saying that ”every preventable fire puts lives, property and the environment at risk. Please help us keep Malta safe.”
Photos CPD: Photo on the left by Jonathan Joslin