Cyprus on red alert for forest fires on Monday

Cyprus on Monday will be on red alert for forest fires, the forestry department said on Sunday, calling on the public to be particularly careful.

In an announcement, it cautioned individuals to avoid any actions that can cause a fire such as using tools or agricultural equipment that create heat, sparks or flame.

Lighting a fire without permission constitutes an offence which can be met with a 10-year prison sentence or up to a €50,000 fine or both, according to the 2012 law on forests. In accordance to the fire prevention law of 1998, offenders can face up to five years in prison, or up to a €20,000 fine or both.

Lighting a fire for food preparation is permitted only in the barbeque areas of camping sites.

Anyone who notices smoke or fire in encouraged to call the forestry department at 1407 or the fire service at 112.