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‘BEHIND EVERY FIRE ARE FIREFIGHTERS WORKING IN EXTREME HEAT’

‘BEHIND EVERY FIRE ARE FIREFIGHTERS WORKING IN EXTREME HEAT’
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The Civil Protection Department (CPD) has issued an urgent appeal to the public, calling on everyone to take extra precautions to help prevent outdoor fires as Malta continues to experience exceptionally high summer temperatures.

With the country gripped by a heatwave, the risk of grass and countryside fires has increased significantly, placing firefighters under immense pressure as they respond to emergencies in extreme heat and demanding conditions.

According to the CPD, crews have attended several outdoor fires in recent days, working tirelessly to protect lives, homes, businesses and Malta's natural environment. The department stressed that many of these fires are preventable and urged the public to play their part in reducing the risk.

The CPD highlighted several simple but important measures that can help prevent fires during the current weather conditions:

  • Never discard cigarette butts from vehicles or onto the ground.
  • Avoid leaving glass bottles or litter in fields and countryside areas, as they can contribute to fire hazards.
  • Landowners are encouraged to safely clear dry grass and overgrown vegetation wherever possible.
  • Do not light outdoor fires or burn garden waste, as even a small flame can spread rapidly in the current conditions.
  • Avoid parking vehicles on dry grass, since hot exhaust systems and catalytic converters can ignite vegetation.
  • Dispose of waste responsibly and never leave combustible materials in the countryside.

The department also reminded the public that anyone who notices smoke or a fire should immediately call 112 and, if it is safe to do so, provide the emergency services with the exact location to ensure a rapid response.

"Every preventable fire puts lives, property and the environment at risk," the CPD said in its appeal, urging residents and visitors alike to remain vigilant throughout the hot weather.

As temperatures remain exceptionally high, authorities are asking the public to exercise caution and follow these fire prevention measures to help protect Malta's countryside, communities and the firefighters working on the front lines.

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