SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 13th April. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The La Laguna Local Police have determined the individuals responsible for a barbecue on a private property in the Camino del Majano area, Guamasa, which allegedly triggered a fire outbreak. Upon confirming the culprit, appropriate sanctions will be imposed.
The Tenerife Island Council declared that the fire affecting stubble and brambles in Guamasa was under control shortly before three in the afternoon. Ground forces, along with aerial support and fire retardant operations, are still active in the area.
During the firefighting operations, the Cabildo’s Brifor team is utilising a helicopter, two high mobility tactical vehicles, one deterrent vehicle, two Environmental agents, a duty technician, and members of the Brivam heliborne brigade. More than 20 personnel are involved in the operation.
Additionally, Tenerife Firefighters Consortium personnel from La Laguna Park and volunteer firefighters from the same area are engaged in firefighting efforts. Three Local Police patrols are also assisting other emergency services.
The Cabildo of Tenerife has implemented level 2 measures to prevent forest fires, including a ban on lighting fires in mountainous areas and access to recreational spaces, camping grounds, and campsites.
This decision has been in effect since last Wednesday and will continue throughout the weekend in response to the forest fire risk alert issued by the General Directorate of Emergencies of the Canary Islands. Furthermore, an alert for high temperatures and a pre-alert for haze has been issued on the island of Tenerife.
This decision was made based on forecasts from the State Meteorological Agency (AEMET) and other sources regarding the influx of continental African air affecting the island since Wednesday, resulting in a significant temperature increase exceeding 30°C, reduced humidity, and the arrival of haze.
Since Wednesday, the Tenerife Island Emergency Plan has been in effect, along with level 2 measures prohibiting outdoor fires (barbecues, bonfires, stoves, or gas burners) and the use of machinery or tools that could spark fires (such as brush cutters, welding equipment, or radial cutters).
The use of any pyrotechnic materials in high-risk areas has been banned, as well as the circulation of motor vehicles on forest trails for recreational purposes and staying in recreational spaces, camping grounds, and campsites. Sporting events and pilgrimages on forest and off-road trails are also not allowed.
The Cabildo of Tenerife advises the public to avoid entering or staying in forested areas, exercise extreme caution in activities that could start fires, and take necessary precautions against extreme heat and haze.
