With the heat and drought persisting in Haute-Savoie, the risk of fire outbreaks remains high in many areas. The prefecture calls on residents, hikers and holidaymakers to be extra vigilant and reminds them of the rules to follow to prevent any fire, especially in the mountains and near natural areas.
Increased vigilance during the summer
Every summer, weather conditions, high temperatures, dried vegetation and sometimes strong winds increase the risk of fire. Although Haute-Savoie is less affected than the Mediterranean regions or Gironde, several fire outbreaks are recorded each year, often following reckless behavior.
This is why state services remind everyone that each person has a role to play in protecting the forests, mountain pastures and natural areas of the department. A single improperly extinguished cigarette butt, an improvised barbecue or a poorly controlled fire can be enough to cause a fire with significant consequences.
What is forbidden
The regulations strictly govern the use of fire, particularly near wooded areas. It is specifically prohibited or strongly discouraged to:
- light a campfire in the forest or nearby;
- have a barbecue in the open countryside, except in specially designated areas when authorized;
- throw cigarette butts or matches that are still hot on the ground or out of a vehicle window;
- burn green waste when this practice is prohibited by regulations;
- use devices producing flames or sparks in sensitive areas without particular precautions.
Depending on weather conditions or alert levels, authorities may also issue orders temporarily strengthening restrictions.
Hikers: the right reflexes in the mountains
During this holiday period, thousands of people use the Haute-Savoie trails daily. The prefecture invites hikers to adopt a few simple gestures:
- never light a fire to cook or keep warm;
- always carry out all your waste, including cigarette butts;
- stay on marked trails to limit risks and preserve natural environments;
- immediately report any suspicious smoke or fire outbreak by calling emergency services.
These recommendations apply as much in the Mont-Blanc, Aravis, Chablais or Giffre mountain ranges as in the numerous forests of the department.
Regulations that protect people and natural areas
The regulations on fire use are not only aimed at preventing fires. They also help protect biodiversity, homes located near forests, agricultural operations and emergency resources, which can be heavily called upon during the summer.
Authorities finally remind that failure to comply with these rules can result in administrative or criminal penalties, especially when behavior causes a fire.
With tourism always very high in Haute-Savoie, everyone’s caution remains the best way to preserve alpine landscapes and avoid sometimes dramatic consequences.
Official site: Préfecture de Haute-Savoie
