Ban on lighting fires
The ban is extended until October 31 because of the high risk of fire
Until October 31 fires may not be lit in woodland areas without special authorisation, because of the high risk of fire in most parts of Catalonia. Normally the ban on lighting fires is lifted on October 15 but this year exceptional measures are being taken to prevent forest fires and the ban may be extended even further if the risk of fire persists.
Weather conditions in recent months have meant that the risk of fire in most parts of Catalonia is greater this autumn, mainly because of very low rainfall. Until the state of the vegetation in these areas improves, the risk of fire is expected to remain at high or very high levels. The risk may be extreme on certain days when conditions are exceptionally unfavourable.
No fires of any kind (including gas stoves and barbeques) may therefore be lit in woodland areas, whether or not there are trees in the vicinity, or in a 500-metre wide strip surrounding them, in those counties where the risk of fire is greatest. The ban also covers burning stubble, lighting fires for any kind of leisure activity, lighting fires for beekeeping, letting off fireworks and releasing balloons or any other device involving fire. The use of blowlamps during work carried out on roads running through woodland areas is also prohibited.
