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Fires? “Prevention is in your hands”: Tips you should remember

Fire risk levels have escalated in several districts across mainland Portugal as the threat of rural fires is set to rise from Tuesday. This alert comes from the Portuguese Institute of the Sea and Atmosphere (IPMA), prompting a reminder of official safety recommendations.

Amidst high temperatures, very low humidity, and strong winds, the probability of fire ignition and rapid spread increases, the Polícia de Segurança Pública (PSP) warned in a social media post.

The statement also emphasized that several municipalities in the districts of Faro, Portalegre, Castelo Branco, Santarém, Viseu, and Guarda are at maximum risk of rural fire today.

“Prevention is in your hands”: Remember what to do (and not do)

  • Never throw cigarette butts or litter on the ground: a simple act of carelessness can cause a major fire;
  • Keep the land around your home clear, creating a protective barrier;
  • Do not start fires or use open flames outdoors during high-risk periods;
  • Avoid using machinery that produces sparks (brush cutters, chainsaws, etc.) during the hottest hours;

The PSP advises: “If you see smoke or fire, immediately call 112. In the event of an evacuation, always follow the authorities’ instructions.

Saw smoke or fire? “Quick communication can save lives”

Amid this heightened risk, the National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection (ANEPC) has reminded the public of what steps to take if they observe smoke or fire nearby.

“Did you see smoke or fire? Don’t hesitate. Call 112. Quick communication can save lives, protect animals, and property,” a statement read.

Furthermore, the ANEPC advises that in such situations, “do not attempt to extinguish” the flames; instead, “move away” and ensure your safety.

Saw smoke or fire? What to do in case of a forest fire

The National Authority for Emergency and Civil Protection reminds the public of the appropriate behaviors to adopt in the event of a fire, emphasizing the importance of “quick communication” of the incident. “Don’t assume someone else has already notified. Every minute counts,” the authorities warn.

Notícias ao Minuto with Lusa | 10:46 – 14/07/2025

Burned area this year nearly tripled compared to 2024

The burned area this year has almost tripled compared to the same period in 2024, with rural fires increasing by 68%, as reported by the Integrated Rural Fire Management System (SGIFR) statistics.

The new SGFIR portal, managed by the Agency for the Integrated Management of Rural Fires (AGIF), reveals that from January 1 to July 11 (Friday), 3,202 rural fires ignited, consuming 9,974 hectares. During the same period last year, there were 1,902 fires and 3,246 hectares burned.

Fires? Burned area (this year) nearly tripled compared to 2024

The burned area this year has almost tripled compared to the same period in 2024, with rural fires increasing by 68%, as reported by the Integrated Rural Fire Management System (SGIFR) statistics.

Lusa | 08:06 – 12/07/2025

It should be noted that in 2024, the burned area was the largest in the past six years, with over 147,000 hectares burned, resulting from 735 fires.

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