People are being reminded that the use of BBQs and open flames in Killarney National Park is strictly prohibited.
It comes as fire services spent several hours battling a blaze that broke out in the Five Mile Bridge area of the park last evening.
The alarm was raised shortly before 5.30PM on Tuesday to a fire at Five Mile Bridge on the N71 Killarney-Kenmare road, near Moll's Gap.
Units from Kenmare, Killarney and Killorglin fire stations attended the scene, alongside Kerry County Council, the NPWS, and two helicopters - which extracted water from the lake to quench the flames.
The fire was brought under control at 10.30PM, with the blaze extinguished at around 12.15am, according to the council.
Minister for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan claims the fire was caused by human activity.
Divisional manager at the National Parks and Wildlife Service, Eamon Meskell, says 20 hectares of natural habitat have been destroyed in Killarney National Park.
He praised the response and cooperation of the agencies who attended the scene and ensured the fire didn’t spread.
Mr Meskall says the site continues to be monitored and gave this fire safety message to the public.
Meanwhile, the N71 Killarney to Kenmare road remains closed this lunchtime following the fire in Killarney National Park.
The fire has been extinguished, however, follow-up activity is continuing in the area as a pre-caution this lunchtime.
These include a helicopter taking water from the lake and crossing over the road to dampen areas on the opposite side of the road.
The council says a reopening time is not available yet.
