Following a fire hazard warning issued by the Czech Hydrometeorological Institute, a temporary ban on lighting fires in areas with an increased risk of fire will be in effect in Prague from 11:00 on Wednesday, 16 April until 12:00 on Friday, 18 April.
Under the regulation for fire protection during periods of heightened fire risk, the following locations are considered particularly vulnerable:
- Forest stands and their surroundings, up to 50 metres from the forest edge
- Forests, parks, gardens, and other vegetated areas where fire could easily spread
- Hay and straw storage sites, including a 50-metre radius around them
- Areas with agricultural crops that are susceptible to ignition and fire spread
During this period, the following activities are prohibited in these areas:
- Lighting or maintaining open fires (e.g. burning undergrowth, bark, or other flammable materials outdoors)
- Smoking (except for electronic cigarettes)
- Using pyrotechnic devices
- Using other sources of ignition such as sky lanterns, traditional lanterns, or torches
- Disposing of burning or smouldering items
- Operating steam locomotives unless fire prevention measures have been implemented
- Using firefighting water for purposes other than extinguishing fires
Exceptions may be granted for open fires in high-risk areas under strict conditions:
- The organiser (e.g. event coordinator) must assess the planned activity in advance, taking into account location, timing, and the specific nature of the event. Demonstrable fire prevention measures must be implemented.
- The organiser must notify the Regional Operations and Information Centre of the Prague Fire Department ahead of time.
- A fire protection unit must be present before the activity begins, and instructions given by the designated commander must be strictly followed.
Violations of this regulation may result in penalties. The City of Prague urges all residents and visitors to help prevent fires by complying with official instructions.
