Fire Safety Warning for Wexford Amid Dry Conditions and High Fire Risk

Wexford County Council has issued an urgent fire safety warning following a series of extensive fires on Mount Leinster and the Blackstairs. With current dry conditions and high winds, a Red Fire Warning Index Alert has been declared, raising the risk of extreme and uncontrollable wildland fires.

The council is urging residents to avoid lighting fires or BBQs in rural areas and to ensure all smoking materials are fully extinguished. Additionally, burning vegetation is illegal from March 1st to August 31st under Section 40 of the Wildlife Act 1976.

Wildfires pose significant risks to life, property, wildlife, and the environment. They also place unnecessary strain on fire services, draining resources and escalating costs. Wexford County Council stresses the importance of public cooperation during this high-risk period to help prevent further incidents.

The council appreciates the community's efforts to stay vigilant and protect the local environment from the dangers of wildfires.