High risk of gorse and forest fires this weekend

Cavan Fire Services bring gorse fire under control

A high fire risk warning has been issue for the weekend with the highest risk today (Friday), April 16.

The 'Condition Orange' warning has been issued by the Department of Agriculture as dry conditions bring a high risk of gorse and forest fires.

The warning, which will subside at noon on Monday, comes after Cavan Fire Services responded to a gorse fire yesterday evening (Thursday).

Two appliances from Cavan Town Fire Brigade were called to attend a gorse fire on scrubland at Moynehall at approximately 6.20pm. A large pile of rubbish had been set alight in close proximity to some thick gorse growth and, given the dry conditions, the gorse caught fire and it quickly spread over an acre of scrubland.

Firefighters from Cavan Town brought the incident under control initially using beaters, and extinguished the fire using high-pressure hose reels.

Chief Fire Officer Noel O’Reilly said: “I would appeal to members of the public to be vigilant this weekend and throughout the summer months. Outdoor camp fires, discarded cigarettes and bottles, and of course illegal burning of rubbish can lead to large gorse or forest fires which are devastating to the local environment, pose a risk to property, and divert vital emergency service resources.

“I would also ask the public to be mindful of allowing access for emergency service vehicles when they are parking their vehicles at forest parks and beauty spots. And remember, if you do spot a fire, call 112 or 999 immediately, don’t attempt to extinguish it yourself, as things can quickly get out of control.”