Why does the risk of forest fires remain high even in autumn?
Climate change is rewriting the rules of nature. Due to higher temperatures and droughts, the wildfire season is no longer limited to the summer months but continues through November. Experts from WWF Bulgaria warn that the loss of forests leads to catastrophic consequences for biodiversity and water catchment areas.
95% of forest fires are caused by human activity. The responsibility is in our hands!
Main sources of danger in nature:
- Magnifying glass effect: Discarded glass bottles or broken glass can ignite dry vegetation in minutes.
- Vehicles: The heated exhaust pipe of a running vehicle parked on dry grass is a common cause of incidents.
- Human negligence: Lighting fires in the open, discarding cigarette butts, and uncontrolled burning of stubble.
How to be responsible tourists?
- Never light a fire in forest or grassy areas.
- Do not discard cigarette butts or matches from your vehicle.
- Take your plastic and glass waste with you – they are potential fire traps.
- Keep lighters and matches out of the reach of children.
Environmental organizations and the General Directorate for Fire Safety and Population Protection are calling for increased caution. Remember: protecting the forest is a mission that requires the awareness of each one of us.