The Tenerife Island Council has conducted a well-organized evacuation of 217 individuals who were present at various camps and camping sites under the jurisdiction of the island institution in order to ensure safety in light of the forest fire risk.
Due to the prevailing weather conditions, with temperatures expected to reach up to 34 degrees, the Cabildo has implemented grade 2 measures starting from this Wednesday to prevent forest fires. These measures include the prohibition of remaining in recreational areas and camping sites.
Hence, a total of 64 individuals have been evacuated from Madre del Agua facilities (Granadilla), 36 from El Lagar (Icod de los Vinos), and 117 from the Scout Centre-Orticosa (Arafo) to ensure their safety in the face of the forest fire risk, as stated by President Rosa Dávila on Wednesday.
The current situation dictates the ban on outdoor fires, including barbecues, bonfires, and gas stoves. It also prohibits forestry activities and the use of any equipment that may cause sparks (such as brush cutters, welding equipment, or radial saws).
Moreover, the use of any pyrotechnic materials in high-risk areas is not allowed, along with smoking in recreational areas, camping sites, campsites, trails, viewpoints, and other public mountain infrastructures.
Grade 2 measures also restrict the circulation of motor vehicles on the forest track network for recreational purposes, as well as the stay in recreational areas, camping sites, campsites, and participation in sports events, pilgrimages, or cross-country trails.
The Tenerife Island Council has also suspended mouflon control activities during this period.
The public is advised to adhere to health authority recommendations, which include staying hydrated by drinking water regularly, even when not feeling thirsty, using sunscreen, sunglasses, and wearing light-colored, lightweight clothing.
It is recommended to seek shelter in shaded areas and reduce outdoor activities during the hottest hours between 12:00 and 16:00.
Special attention should be given to vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic illnesses, as they are more prone to the adverse effects of extreme heat.
These grade 2 measures will remain in place from Wednesday until Monday, 29th July.
