Red fire alert on August 15. Foresters remind us of important rules

On Saturday, August 15, forest areas will be subject to red fire hazard levelThe Forestry Department is urging people to exercise extreme caution as thousands of people will be heading to forests, parks, and picnic areas for the holiday.

The authorities also remind everyone about the rules for using forest parks. In some areas, fires are completely banned, and organizing even a small event may require prior permission.

Red alert on Saturday, August 15

The Forestry Department warns that the risk of forest fires breaking out and spreading rapidly will reach a level on Saturday. "Red Alert".

This is especially important during the August 15 celebrations, when many families traditionally spend the day in the mountains, forests and picnic areas.

Foresters appeal to completely avoid activities that could cause fires.

This includes using electrical devices that produce sparks or flames, throwing away cigarette butts and leaving lit matches.

Barbecue only in designated areas

In forest areas you are not allowed to light a fire anywhere.

Cooking food using fire is only permitted on designated barbecues located in official picnic areas.

The Department reminds that causing a fire is a crime and may result in severe penalties.

If anyone notices smoke or fire, they should call immediately. 1407 to the Forestry Department or 112 to the Fire Department.

Additional rules apply at Athalassa and Pedagogical Academy parks

A separate announcement concerns National Forest Parks Athalassa and Pedagogical Academy.

The Forestry Department would like to remind you that the tables and benches located there are publicly available and They cannot be booked in advance or occupied for a group.

Parking is only permitted in designated parking lots.

Dogs may only be walked on designated trails and must remain on a leash.

By bike only on designated routes

Cycling is only permitted on routes designated for cyclists.

The department also appeals to reduce speed for the safety of other park users.

Driving outside designated routes is prohibited.

Are you organizing a birthday party? You may need a permit.

An important rule also applies to larger meetings.

Organized in the park group event or activity, including a birthday party, requires prior consent from the Forestry Department.

Commercial activities are also prohibited without prior consent. This includes activities organized by summer schools.

It is forbidden to light fires in these parks.

In the case of Athalassa and Pedagogical Academy parks, total ban on lighting fires.

The department explicitly mentions, among others, the preparation of food and the use of shisha.

This is an important distinction: in official picnic areas in forests, food preparation may be permitted on special grills, while in parks covered by this notice, lighting fires is prohibited.

Take out your trash and respect nature

The Forestry Department also reminds the public of the obligation to leave the area clean and to protect wildlife and the natural environment.

With heavy traffic expected on August 15, the services are asking residents and tourists to be particularly responsible.

The most important rules for August 15th

• the red fire hazard level applies,
• do not light a fire except in places where it is expressly permitted,
• in picnic areas, use only designated grills,
• do not throw away cigarette butts,
• Fires are not allowed in Athalassa and Pedagogical Academy parks,
• Tables and benches in these parks cannot be reserved,
• dogs must be on a leash and move along designated routes,
• group events, including birthdays, require prior permission,
• If you notice fire or smoke, call 1407 or 112.

The material was prepared based on announcements from the Forestry Department.