Forestry Minister and Kerry TD Michael Healy Rae has issued a warning to the public about the dangers of illegal fires during the current warm weather.
The Department of Agriculture has issued a Condition Orange – High Fire Risk warning, which is in operation from now until midday on Monday.
It's advising those living in rural areas to assess wildfire risks to their properties, and prepare accordingly.
The Minister advises that dangerous, flammable vegetation around homes in high-risk areas should be removed immediately, especially around oil tanks and other fuel stores.
He says the significant increase in the use of forest recreation sites by the public in recent years, has meant a large proportion of forest fires can now be attributed to recreational users and activities.
He's asking the public to be vigilant and to report any uncontrolled or unattended fires immediately to the Fire and Emergency Services.
