Starting today until 30th September, Portugal is in the Critical Fire Period. This means we need to reinforce all our efforts to prevent fires.
Regardless of the actual fire risk in your area the following applies:
Burning for grassland renewal, cleaning stubble or debris that is uncut or cut on the ground, but NOT in piles, is not permitted
The burning of piled-up waste is not permitted
The use of stoves, BBQs and grills is prohibited in all rural spaces, except where used outside of the critical areas and in places duly authorised for the purpose. Please note that BBQs are permitted in private gardens, but the owner is liable should the BBQ catch fire to surrounding vegetation.
Smoking and all types of naked flames are prohibited in woodland and forests.
Balloons with a lit fuse and rockets are prohibited. Fireworks are only permitted subject to authorisation from the Municipal Council.
Fumigating and pest control in apiaries are prohibited except where the fumigators are fitted with spark retention devices.
Spark retention devices and flame covers must be used on exhaust pipes and chimneys of machinery with internal or external combustion engines and on heavy transport vehicles. One or two 6 kg fire extinguishers must be carried depending on whether the maximum weight is less or more than ten tonnes
In addition to the above the emergency services have been reinforced in order to help prevent fires and protect the population should a fire occur.