Many strict rules are in place in Portugal, to reduce the risk of wildfires in the sort of rural and forest areas currently devastating large parts of France and Spain.
Landowners in Portugal face heavy fines unless they clear undergrowth within 50 metres of homes, outbuildings and trees in the spring. For larger settlements the distance is 100 metres. Wherever, tree branches need to be trimmed to 4 metres above ground.
Open fires in risk areas are banned. Cooking fires or barbeques are only allowed in approved spots. Bonfires, campfires, garden waste or piled wood fires are no allowed during summer months.
No smoking or dropping of cigarette butts is permitted in forests, woodlands or rural paths.
The use of heavy machinery is restricted, as is letting of festive fireworks, unless specifically authorised.
Written by Len Port - Photo courtesy of Depositphotos.com
You can read more about rural fire risk and prevention at https://www.safecommunitiesportugal.com
