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Due to the latest in regard to fire alerts, Zakynthos informer has had quite a few messages asking “Is it ok to light up a BBQ?”…… Why can’t we have fireworks, it’s not windy”?
The law states that it is forbidden to light up fires and BBQs outdoors, but leaves a “window” for our own gardens, as long as certain conditions are met and these are the conditions one should always consider when planning to BBQ outdoors.
The law states that:-
From May 1st to October 31st, the Anti-Fire Period is valid and according to the Fire Regulation (P/D) 9/2000, “it is forbidden to light and maintain a fire for any purpose in the countryside”. Therefore, having a BBQ with a mobile or improvised grill in an outdoor area, such as a clearing, a field, even a beach, is strictly out of the question! It is a serious violation of the law and will result in criminal proceedings. An amendment to this law in 2005, gave way for BBQ’s to be lit P/D (Article 4, par. 4) outside in courtyards, gardens, of one’s home, hotel, camping sites, etc., all the time. However, this exception concerns only permanent, built-in grills areas and BBQs with a flue. Their use is only permitted if specific safety measures have been taken and they are as follows:
Flues must be fitted with a special device to reduce the production of sparks. Most built grills have it built in already.
Flues must be regularly cleaned.
When grilling is finished, the coal must be extinguished immediately.
While cooking there should be an ample supply of water available, just in case, you can never be too sure. In fact, it is recommended to have a large capacity fire extinguisher close by but always check the expiry date.
The ground under and around the BBQ should be either dirt, concrete or stone, never grass and never have trees, shrubs or flowers nearby, as they too are at risk of catching fire.
Just be aware, those who have made their own improvised BBQs are NOT included in the exemption. Sorry but you cannot use them during the summer months. Complaints are often made about their use and it is left to the discretion of the local fire department whether to proceed with a spontaneous procedure or to simply make recommendations.
Don’t be a fool and light a fire when there are strong winds, you are just looking for trouble. Common sense means being safer, especially during alerts.
Zakynthos Informer always displays the indicating maps for fire alerts, known as Fire Risk Prediction Map. It is issued daily by the Fire Department and Civil Protection (civilprotection.gr). We do not light BBQs if the indicator is 3 ( high-yellow colour), 4 (very high-orange colour) and 5 (alarm state-red colour)….. Colours blue and green still be aware of safety measures when using your BBQ.
Fireworks.
Fireworks are divided into four categories:
Category 1, 2 and 3.
These fireworks are freely sold on the market and can be purchased by any individual for personal use. You can buy them at fireworks retailers and no license is required to use them.
Category 4
These fireworks are intended exclusively for professional use, they are not sold to individuals or freely and require a special license for their use.
Fireworks – Airborne Flying Lanterns
It is prohibited from May 1 to October 31 of each year, the use of fireworks and airborne lanterns, on days when the danger index, according to the General Secretariat of Civil Protection (G.G.P.P.) Daily Risk Forecast Map fire level is 4 (Very High) or 5 (Alert Status).
Fireworks are allowed at home if you comply with the regulations, as mentioned above this depends on the category the fireworks come under, category 4 being only for professional use and require special licenses.
Standard safety precautions should not only during the summer months but also during the whole year, even if there is an indication of low fire risk.
The safest option would be to ask our fire services for their opinion, to carry out an autopsy at the area you intend to use fireworks, if this is deemed necessary.
This year’s conditions of extreme and prolonged heat seem to be the new normal. However, we mustn’t BBQ or if conditions reach levels 4 and 5 definitely, no use of fireworks or lanterns, regardless of the measures taken.
The embers during the day are invisible and with a strong wind they can move up to 2 kilometers away from the fire, igniting a new one.
If the local Fire Service determines that for any reason, beyond the above, we should not light a grill, we comply with the suggestion.
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Source. gov.gr
