The Andalusian Emergency Agency (EMA), under the Ministry of the Presidency, Interior, Social Dialogue, and Administrative Simplification, informs that, from Sunday, June 1st until October 15th, the period of high risk of forest fires in Andalusia, barbecues are prohibited; even in designated areas (recreational areas), agricultural and forest burns, as well as motor vehicle circulation in forest and forest influence areas, which are agricultural and urban lands located within 400 meters of forested areas.
According to the director of the Andalusian Forest Fire Emergency Plan, Antonio Sanz, «the measure aims to prevent negligent or accidental situations that may cause a forest fire, as well as protect the Andalusian natural environment during the highest fire risk period.» These restrictions are regulated by the order published in BOJA on May 29, 2009, which permanently establishes the prohibitions during the aforementioned period for all subsequent years.
As for the permitted exceptions, always under express prior authorization from the corresponding Government Delegation, barbecues are allowed in authorized tourist accommodation establishments and rural restaurants, as well as food preparation in children’s camps or the use of distillation boilers, charcoal ovens, and piconeo.
Regarding motor vehicle traffic, it is only possible in some cases, such as the use of right of ways, the use of vehicles for emergency or firefighting services, authorized ecotourism services, or the celebration of pilgrimages, among others.
On the other hand, Sanz has stated that «The Unit of the National Police Attached to Andalusia will focus all efforts on protecting nature, allocating the necessary resources and efforts to enforce the restrictions during the high-risk period.»
The Junta calls for prudence and responsibility from the public during their time in natural environments, requesting a responsible attitude when in contact with forested areas. This way, fires that could endanger urban areas, nature, and firefighting teams can be avoided. In case of sighting smoke or flames, emergency services should be alerted by calling 112.
