Ban on barbecues in Finistère in bid to limit wildfires
Restrictions in place in dozens of communes as authorities work to prevent repeat of 2022 blazes
Barbecues will be banned until at least next Wednesday
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Authorities in a Brittany department are temporarily banning barbecues due to an increased risk of wildfires in the region.
The Finistère prefecture has banned the use of barbecues and campfires. A total ban on burning vegetation unless in the presence of emergency services is also in place in 42 communes until at least July 16.
The decision has been taken “due to weather conditions marked by severe drought affecting vegetation,” the department said in a press release.
“This decision aims to protect sensitive areas consisting of woods, forests, moors and plantations, as well as a 200-metre perimeter around these natural environments,” it added.
The list of affected communes can be found on the official press release.
Authorities are asking the public to be vigilant, as around 90% of wildfires are caused by human activity, accidental or otherwise.
Starting a forest fire accidentally could result in a fine of up to €30,000 (€100,000 if someone dies) and face between two and seven years in prison.
In deliberate cases of arson, the fine rises to €45,000 (€150,000 with a fatality) and a sentence of four to ten years.
Summer of wildfires expected
Finistère was impacted by wildfires in 2022, destroying more than 1,000 hectares in the Arrée mountains.
Authorities are attempting to prevent a repeat of these devastating fires, with summer conditions creating the perfect conditions for massive blazes.
A lack of rainfall and high temperatures – areas in Brittany saw record June heat in this year’s first major heatwave – mean soil and vegetation are drier than usual.
This greatly increases the risk of any fire spreading.
Despite the temporary rule change, there are no warnings for the department on the state forecaster Météo France’s forest fire risk map.
However, an expected third major heatwave of the year may see conditions worsen considerably in Brittany, increasing the risk of fires.
In addition, drought alerts are in place across the region.
