Bonfire Ban in Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus has implemented a special fire safety protocol. The Department of Forestry has announced that lighting bonfires in forested areas and their surroundings will be prohibited from May 1 to October 31.

According to the department's statement, the risk of fires is expected to rise during this period due to higher temperatures and lower humidity levels. The Meteorological Department has predicted that temperatures will soon reach around 38°C, with humidity levels decreasing. As a result, the public is urged to take extra care in protecting the forests.

The statement also noted that a significant portion of last year’s fires were caused by power lines and uncontrolled garbage dumps. To address this, the Department of Forestry has formed fire response teams, and efforts to clear forest roads and firebreaks using heavy machinery are ongoing.

Under the law, lighting bonfires in forest areas or their vicinity is strictly prohibited from May 1 to October 31 for any reason. Adhering to this ban is essential for all citizens to prevent potential large-scale disasters, the statement emphasized.

Anyone who notices smoke should immediately report it through the free “Alo 177 Forest Fire Reporting Line” or the “Alo 199 Fire Department” hotline.