The Cabildo de Tenerife has launched a series of Level 1 measures for the prevention of forest fires starting from 3rd July, aimed at protecting the island’s natural spaces due to the high fire risk alert declared by the General Directorate of Emergencies of the Government of Canary Islands.
The alert from the Government of the Canary Islands will be activated from 17:00 hours on Thursday 3rd July in the majority of the islands in the archipelago —except Lanzarote and Fuerteventura—, following what is established in Decree 60/2014, which regulates the Special Civil Protection and Emergency Response Plan for Forest Fires (INFOCA) in the Autonomous Community. The alert affects El Hierro, La Palma, Tenerife (except the northern area below 600 metres in altitude), La Gomera, and Gran Canaria (from 600 metres in the north and 400 metres in other slopes).
Prohibition of Lighting Fires in the Mountains of Tenerife
The measures activated by the Cabildo include the prohibition of lighting fires in recreational areas —such as barbecues, bonfires, or gas cookers—, restrictions on the use of machinery that may generate sparks (brush cutters, welding equipment, cutting discs), and a smoking ban in forest areas and public spaces such as campgrounds, trails, or viewpoints.
This decision responds to a weather episode that forecasts high temperatures, with highs between 34 and 37 degrees Celsius, accompanied by moderate to strong winds from the east-northeast over several days, conditions that significantly elevate the risk of forest fires.
The Brifor seals off recreational areas in Tenerife due to fire risk. / ED
These measures will remain in effect while the alert situation persists. The Cabildo recommends avoiding access to and staying in forest areas to minimise risks and ensure safety across the island.
For more information on the prevention and management of forest fires in the Canary Islands, you can consult the official page of the Government of the Canary Islands and the INFOCA Plan.
