Ahead of festivities, where people prefer to visit forest areas to perform rituals, the forest department has issued Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to be adopted in the process to mitigate the risk of forest fires.
1. No Open Burning: The entry to Protected Areas with any inflammable material/ or setting up of fire in any form is a punishable offence as per provision of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. Open burning of any kind, including but not limited to campfires, debris burning, and the disposal of lit cigarettes/agarbatis/any ritual material that would leave any fire in forest area unattended shall be punishable as per law.
2. Clearing of Dry Vegetation: It must be ensured that there is regular clearing of dry leaves, branches, and other combustible vegetation from forest areas and in fringe areas adjoining forests.
3. Equipment Safety: Utmost caution shall be exercised when using equipments that may produce sparks, such as chainsaws or welding equipment, especially during dry and windy conditions. It must be ensured that the equipments are well-maintained to prevent malfunctions.
4. Smoking shall be discouraged in forested arean and proper disposal of cigarette butts in designated containers is to be ensured. Violators shall be strictly punished as per law.
5. Vehicle Safety: Driving or parking vehicles in tall grass or dry vegetation should be avoided, as hot exhaust systems can ignite fires.
- Firebreaks and Controlled Burns: Controlled burns and firebreaks in collaboration with relevant authorities are to be ensured to manage fuel load and to prevent the rapid spread of fires.
7. Fire Safety Education: Regular awareness campaigns are to be conducted to educate the community about the importance of fire prevention and the role individuals play in safeguarding against forest fires.
8. Report Suspicious Activity: Residents and public are to be encouraged to report any suspicious activity that may lead to intentional or accidental fires. Such community vigilance and consequent swift reporting allows authorities to investigate and address potential risks.
9. Proper Disposal of waste, glass and mirrors: Disposal of waste, glass bottles or mirrors in forested areas is strictly prohibited, as they can act as fuel load or can concentrate sunlight and start fires. Responsible waste disposal practices are to be ensured. Individuals / Local authorities / Organisations found responsible for waste disposal in forest areas shall be punished as per law.
10. Monitoring Weather Conditions: Stay informed about weather conditions, especially during dry and windy periods. Adjust outdoor activities accordingly, and be prepared for heightened fire risks.
11. Collaboration with Authorities: Collaboration with local fire department, forestry agencies, and other relevant authorities is to be ensured.
