Cabildo Activates Fire Prevention Level 0 Following End of Emergency Alert
Starting at 08:00 on Saturday, 15 August, the Cabildo of Tenerife has implemented Level 0, or pre-alert, in its fire prevention measures across the island’s four high-risk sectors. This decision follows the Canary Islands government declaring the end of the wildfire emergency alert.
The measure, issued by the Department of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, applies to the Northern, Southern, Anaga North, and Anaga South areas, based on the evolving weather conditions.
Rosa Dávila, president of the Cabildo, stated that the end of the wildfire alert allows for a return to normalcy in local forests and natural spaces. However, she cautioned that lifting restrictions does not mean complacency. “We are still in summer, and the risk of fire remains significant due to any carelessness,” she warned.
Blanca Pérez, the councillor for the environment, highlighted that the Cabildo is adjusting preventive measures in line with the changing risk levels while acting responsibly. She emphasised that prevention is effective when restrictions are enforced when necessary and lifted when conditions allow.
With the activation of Level 0, outdoor activities such as the use of fire, smoking, and employing spark-producing machinery are once again permitted in the risk areas. Recreational vehicle use, sporting events, and access to hiking trails are also allowed.
However, specific restrictions remain in effect, particularly the prohibition of burning agricultural and forest waste during pre-alert conditions. Additionally, restrictions concerning areas impacted by the August 2023 wildfire and adverse weather phenomena in protected natural areas are still in force, alongside a smoking ban throughout Teide National Park.
Pérez urged the public to act responsibly, stating that “the best tool against wildfires is prevention.” She encouraged citizens to enjoy natural spaces safely, exercise caution during fire-generating activities, and check Tenerife ON for updates before venturing into outdoor areas.
The Cabildo advises heightened caution across the island concerning any activities that could spark fires, especially with tobacco, generators, electrical equipment, or fireworks.
