Be vigilant when tidying up your garden plots

March 9, 2020

With the arrival of spring and warmer weather, owners of private homes and garden plots begin to actively tidy up their properties.

With the arrival of spring and warmer weather, owners of private homes and garden plots begin to actively tidy up their properties. Garbage, last year's grass, tree leaves – everything that catches the eye of a conscientious owner is subject to cleaning. Often, owners choose the easiest and fastest way to destroy garbage – by burning. While the fire is "tidying up" the plot, there is a moment to discuss the latest news with neighbors and think about plans for the upcoming season.

Engrossed in spring chores, owners notice too late that the flame, fanned by the wind, has already spread to adjacent territories and nearby structures. It is impossible to cope with such a fire without the help of rescuers – there is a high probability of finding yourself in a fiery trap or suffocating in smoke.

Last year, over 100 fires occurred in the Vitebsk region due to the burning of dry vegetation.

The Ministry of Emergency Situations reminds: in accordance with the current legislation, controlled bonfires and the placement of special cooking devices (grills, barbecues) on the territory of garden cooperatives, recreation centers, and private plots are permitted, subject to the following conditions:

- Take measures to prevent the spread of fire beyond the designated area (i.e., remove combustible materials around the fire pit, possibly sprinkle with sand, loosen the soil around the fire pit);

- Constantly monitor the burning process and equip the area with extinguishing agents (fire extinguisher, container with water, shovel, etc.). After everything, extinguish until smoldering completely ceases;

- Maintain a distance of at least 10 meters from buildings and structures when lighting bonfires, 20 meters from forest areas, 30 meters from haystacks and straw stacks. Special cooking devices are allowed to be placed at a distance of at least 4 meters from buildings (structures).

We draw the attention of citizens,

Violation of the specified fire safety rules entails administrative liability ranging from 10 to 40 base units.