Ministry of Sustainable Development, Forest Department, Department of the Environment give tips to prevent and control wildfires

Photo Courtesy: The Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center

By Rubén Morales Iglesias: The dry season in Belize lasts from December to May, when the weather is sunny and hot. This also means that the vegetation becomes dry and prone to wildfires, which can harm the environment and public health. Therefore, the Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, the Forest Department, and the Department of the Environment urge the public to be careful and responsible around fires during this period and have issued the following tips to prevent and control wildfires:

– If you need to burn agricultural waste or clear land, consult with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forest Department first and follow their fire safety guidelines.

– Create fire breaks around your fields or pastures by clearing at least six feet of vegetation before burning.

– Have enough water and manpower ready to control and extinguish any fires that get out of hand.

– Notify your local fire station of your planned burning activities and check the weather forecast for wind speed and direction.

– Avoid burning during the hottest part of the day and never leave fires unattended.

– Dispose of cigarette butts and glass bottles properly. They can start fires if thrown in dry grass or bush.

– Make sure that campfires or other recreational fires are completely put out before leaving the area.

– Do not intentionally cause a fire or set fire to garbage dumps.

– Keep your property clean and secure from trespassers who may start fires.

– Report any uncontrolled forest fires to the Forest Department.

The Ministry of Sustainable Development, Climate Change and Disaster Risk Management, the Forest Department, and the Department of the Environment say we all have a role to play in protecting our forests and our health from wildfires. So, they advise that we use fire wisely and help preserve our natural resources for future generations.

Photo Courtesy: The Belize Zoo & Tropical Education Center

Advertise with the mоѕt vіѕіtеd nеwѕ ѕіtе іn Belize ~ We offer fully customizable and flexible digital marketing packages. Your content is delivered instantly to thousands of users in Belize and abroad! Contact us at mаrkеtіng@brеаkіngbеlіzеnеwѕ.соm or call us at 501-612-0315.

© 2023, BreakingBelizeNews.com. Content is copyrighted and requires written permission for reprinting in online or print media. Theft of content without permission/payment is punishable by law.