The forestry department on Tuesday issued a red alert, warning of the extreme danger of forest fires, while the met office issued a yellow warning for the day because of high temperatures.
The department stressed it is forbidden to light a fire without a permit, and this as well throwing cigarette butts and to light matches constitute crimes which are punishable by imprisonment for up to 10 years, a fine of up to €50,000 or both according to the forest law of 2012.
Another law, the fire prevention law in the countryside, sets the punishment at up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to €20,000 or both together.
“Lighting a fire to prepare food is only allowed in barbecue areas of picnic sites,” the department warned.
Source: CyprusMail