Fire warning issued as temperatures continue to rise

It could hit 32C in some parts of the country this week.

The Department of Agriculture has issues a "Condition Orange" warning, meaning there's a high risk of fire.

In place until noon on Wednesday, July 20, it says a high fire risk is deemed to exist in all areas where hazardous fuels such as dead grasses and shrub fuels such as heather and gorse exist.

It's issued advice to people planning to venture to the country's forests or other recreational areas.

Regulations are in place for members of the public visiting such sites, particularly with regard to fire use.

Forest visitors should not use barbeques or open fires at any stage. Vehicles must not be parked at site entrances or impede emergency service access to forest roads. Regular warnings are issued as cars block laneways or gates, preventing access by fire services.

Members of the public and visitors to recreational areas should cooperate with all requests regarding fire safety, obey all relevant bye-laws and be considerate in parking vehicles so as not to impede access by emergency vehicles.

Where fire outbreaks occur at or near recreational areas the following actions should be taken by visitors in the interests of safety.

1. Do not light fires in and around forests or open land.

2. Do not attempt to intervene or fight fires under any circumstances.

3. Gather all family/group members and move to a safe fuel-free location such as a car park, upwind of the fire.

4. Telephone Fire and Rescue Services via 999 or 112 and report the fire and its location.

5. Evacuate if instructed to do so, and cooperate with all Emergency Service Instructions.