Annual grass fires are back in Latvia

Take note – story published 2 years ago

Over the weekend, the Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) had to extinguish 24 grass fires. This year, since February 13, 36 grass fires have been recorded in Latvia, VUGD told Latvian Radio March 7.

"Grass burners have got to work over the weekend, they think this is the right time to do this activity. The ground has not thawed yet. But we remind everyone that burning last year's grass is a penalizable action. It can result in a penalty of up to EUR 700," said VUGD representative Agrita Vītola.

Hundreds of grass fires (kūlas ugunsgrēki) are registered in Latvia each year, to such extent that burning grass is sometimes referred to as a national hobby.

Rather than being burned in situ, grass should be cut and burned on a safe bonfire with proper precautions to stop it spreading - or preferably composted if possible.

 

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