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Madrid activates summer restrictions to prevent fires
Going into the countryside in Madrid this summer will require more care than ever. From 15 June to 30 September, the Comunidad activates the period of maximum forest-fire risk, with restrictions affecting barbecues, camping, rural activities and any use of fire in open spaces.
The most important rule is clear: lighting fires in woodland, recreation areas, roadside rest areas and outdoor spaces is prohibited, even in places where it may be allowed at other times of the year. Cooking with fire, improvising a barbecue or lighting a bonfire are out of the question during these months.
Authorisations to burn stubble, pruning waste, grassland or plant waste are also suspended. In the height of the hot season, a spark can spread very quickly if it finds dry vegetation, wind and terrain that is difficult for emergency teams.
The restrictions also extend to the use of pyrotechnic materials and machinery that may generate sparks in rural areas or areas close to woodland. Only certain work may be carried out with express authorisation or in emergency situations, always under controlled conditions.
For those planning excursions, routes, outdoor meals or weekend getaways, the recommendation is simple: no fire, always collect rubbish and pay the utmost attention to cigarette butts, matches, glass or any object that could cause an ignition point. A small oversight can end in a large-scale fire.
Camping must also be done only in authorised spaces. It is advisable to choose areas with little vegetation around them, avoid accumulations of dry remains and be clear about the way out if the wind changes or smoke appears nearby.
In the event of any column of smoke, smell of burning or small ignition point, Emergencies asks people to call 112 immediately. There is no need to wait for the fire to grow or assume that someone else has already raised the alarm. In forest fires, the first minutes often determine whether the problem remains a scare or becomes an emergency.
The INFOMA operation coordinates the response to forest fires in the Comunidad de Madrid and steps up its activity during the summer with professionals, volunteers and emergency teams. Prevention will be the least visible part of the operation, but also the most important: this summer, enjoying Madrid's countryside begins by not lighting even a single spark.