Attention! High fire hazard persists in the Vitebsk region!

Decisions of local authorities in 15 districts of the region have imposed a ban on visiting forests: in Beshenkovichsky, Vitebsky, Gorodoksky, Dubrovensky, Lioznensky, Lepelsky, Orshansky, Miorsky, Polotsky, Rossonksky, Senno, Tolochinsky, Ushachsky, Chashniksky, Shumilinsky districts.

In four regions, restrictions on visiting forests have been introduced: Verkhnedvinsky, Gluboksky, Dokshitsky, Sharkovshchinsky districts.

Since the beginning of the year, 91 cases of grass and shrub fires, 1 case of peat bog fire, and 13 forest fires have been recorded in the Vitebsk region.

Dear citizens, refrain from entering forest areas, as well as from tidying up your household plots using fire!

Remember that burning dry vegetation is prohibited by law! According to Article 16.40 of the Code of the Republic of Belarus on Administrative Offenses, for illegal burning of dry vegetation, grass in its natural state, as well as stubble and post-harvest residues in fields, or failure to take measures to extinguish fires, guilty persons are brought to administrative responsibility in the form of a fine of up to 1200 Belarusian rubles (30 basic units).

In accordance with Article 16.41, for lighting fires in prohibited places, a fine of up to 480 Belarusian rubles (12 basic units) is imposed. In case of causing damage of a particularly large scale, criminal liability arises. Violation of fire safety requirements, which led to the outbreak of a fire and the destruction or damage of another's property, entails the imposition of a fine in the amount of from 1200 Belarusian rubles (30 basic units).

Therefore, be responsible, do not throw burning cigarette butts or matches onto the grass, and do not leave glass bottles on the ground. Do not light fires in the forest during the fire hazard period.

Fires can be lit on household plots, but a number of important rules must be observed. A specially prepared place should be used for this. Flammable liquids, except for those specifically designed for this purpose, should not be used for ignition.

Fires can be lit in calm weather, and constant control over the burning process must be ensured. In addition, a container of water, sand, or a fire extinguisher should be readily available. When leaving, the embers must be completely extinguished.