Public urged to ‘use common sense’ as Orange forest fire risk warning in place

The Department of Agriculture announced an Orange Forest Fire Danger Rating on Wednesday, that is due to stay in place until next Monday, writes Marian Roche.

Arising from current dry weather patterns and high temperatures, a high fire risk exists in all areas where there are hazardous materials such as dead grasses, heather and gorse.

Mitchelstown Fire Station Officer Bob Dalton urged people to use common sense when they’re out and about at the weekend.

“Be vigilant and don’t be lighting fires or barbecues near forestry. Be careful even at home - fires can spread easily at this time of the year.

“Use common sense when camping or in carparks, and don’t light fires. Be mindful too of leaving glass bottles out on dry grass - the glass will cause heat to radiate and can easily start a fire,” he informed TheAvondhu.

The Department of Agriculture is also reminding people when parking not to block any entrances or impede the entry or exit of any emergency vehicles.

ROAD ACCIDENT

Elsewhere, the Mitchelstown Fire Brigade were called to a car crash on Tuesday morning at approximately 7am on the M8 outside Mitchelstown, in the southbound direction. An incident occurred between a car and a crane. There were no fatalities, and one person was taken to hospital by ambulance as a precaution.