Red alert for fires on Wednesday

A red alert for fires has been issued by the Forestry Department for Wednesday.

Lighting fires without permission is an offence carrying a prison sentence of up to ten years and/or hefty fines up to €50,000.

The Forestry Department says lighting fires for food preparation is only allowed in designated areas at picnic places.

The public is urged to be extremely careful, avoiding any activities that could possibly start a fire, such as the use of tools or agricultural equipment which produce heat...