Gran Canaria Faces Strict Fire Restrictions Amid Heatwave
Authorities in Gran Canaria have enacted the Infogran fire prevention plan due to a high risk of wildfires, triggered by extreme temperatures. The alert was issued on Thursday, July 30, as red warnings were raised across the island, particularly affecting the eastern regions.
Key restrictions have now come into effect. All open fires are banned across the island, including in recreational areas, campsites, and rest stops. This prohibition extends even to designated barbecue locations and portable cooking devices.
In Tamadaba Natural Park, known for its rich forestry, restrictions are even stricter. Access via the GC-216 road is limited to residents and essential services, and both the Llanos de la Mimbre campsite and Tamadaba recreational area are closed during the alert.
Additionally, all agricultural and forestry burning permissions are suspended, covering remains from prunings, permanent pastures, and similar waste. The use of fireworks is also prohibited, alongside machinery that may spark or produce electrical discharges within a 400-metre radius of wooded areas.
The restrictions further include a temporary halt on charcoal production and a ban on using fire in beekeeping activities. Activities that risk igniting a fire, such as dropping or abandoning burning objects, are also prohibited.
Access to forested areas is restricted, with movement on tracks and trails limited primarily to residents and emergency services. The ban does not extend to lands within one kilometre of urban areas.
Furthermore, the island’s government has temporarily suspended all hunting activities to reduce the number of people in high-risk areas, thereby lowering the chance of wildfires.
These measures will remain in place for as long as the wildfire alert is active. The local government will communicate any changes or lifting of restrictions based on evolving weather conditions.
Federico Grillo, the director of Emergency Services for the Cabildo, urged residents to act responsibly to minimise fire risks. He advised vigilance for smoke columns and encouraged anyone spotting a fire to call emergency services immediately. He noted that homes on the northern and southern slopes of the island are particularly vulnerable, emphasising the importance of keeping these areas free of dry vegetation to prevent fire spread.
