A strong appeal to hunters to prevent wildfires has been issued by the Department of Forests, ahead of the opening of the hunting season for wood pigeons on Sunday, 24 August 2025.
In its announcement, the department calls on hunters to exercise maximum caution during their outings in rural and forested areas, and to avoid any activity that could lead to a fire. Lighting fires for any reason is strictly forbidden, as is the careless disposal of lit cigarettes or matches. With high temperatures and prolonged drought conditions prevailing across Cyprus, the risk of wildfires is extremely high.
“The recent wildfire in the mountainous areas of Limassol should serve as a wake-up call and a lesson,” the statement said. It also reminded hunters that leaving used cartridges in nature not only pollutes the environment but also violates the Law on the Protection and Management of Wild Birds and Game. Hunters are therefore urged to collect and remove all spent cartridges before leaving.
The Department of Forests stressed that lighting fires in forests or farmland is a criminal offence, punishable under the Forest Law by up to 12 years in prison, a fine of up to €100,000, or both.
The only exception to this rule is the use of designated barbecue facilities in official picnic sites managed by the Department of Forests.
Finally, the department urged the public to immediately report any signs of smoke or fire in or near forest areas by calling 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112 (Fire Service).
Source: CNA
Feature photo source: Stock images
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