Fire warning from Muğla Metropolitan Fire Department

With the arrival of summer, increasing air temperatures reaching critical levels, decreasing humidity, and intensified strong winds, the fire risk in forests and agricultural lands throughout Muğla has increased significantly. Muğla Metropolitan Municipality called on citizens to be cautious especially regarding the use of fire in open areas, particularly stubble fires.

3,268 fires intervened between 2021 and June 2026

The teams from Muğla Metropolitan Municipality Fire Department intervened in 2,495 debris, rubble, and garbage fires and 773 forest fires that occurred between 2021 and June 2026. Intervening in a total of 3,268 fires, the teams emphasized that most of the fires experienced, especially in summer, are caused by human negligence.

Stubble burning is both illegal and poses a great risk

The Metropolitan Municipality underlined that stubble burning in agricultural lands after harvest is both legally prohibited and poses a serious threat as it can get out of control, affecting forested areas and settlements. It was stated that stubble fires reduce soil fertility, adversely affect natural life, and a small spark can turn into fires spreading over wide areas.

Be cautious with fire and cigarette butts in open areas

The warnings stated that lighting picnic fires in forested areas, by roadsides, and in areas close to forests, as well as lighting fires for garden cleaning and uncontrolled fire use must absolutely be avoided. It was reminded that throwing cigarette butts from vehicles in transit and leaving glass and plastic bottles in nature can cause fires by focusing sunlight.

Pay attention to forest entry bans and beekeeping activities

Muğla Metropolitan Municipality highlighted the importance of fully complying with the forest entry bans and restrictions declared by the Governorship. Additionally, it was noted that fire sources such as smokers used in beekeeping activities pose great risks in hot, dry, and windy weather, and that smokers should never be left unattended and must be completely extinguished after use.

Mayor Aras: “Early notification can prevent great disasters”

Ahmet Aras, President of the Coastal Municipalities Union and Muğla Metropolitan Municipality, emphasized that protecting forests, agricultural lands, and natural life is a shared responsibility, stating, "The most effective way to protect our nature is to prevent risks before they escalate. We kindly ask our citizens to immediately report any small smoke or suspicious situations to the 112 Emergency Call Center and Muğla Metropolitan Municipality’s 444 48 01 Call Center without delay. Early notification allows fires to be controlled before they grow, preventing loss of life and damage to our forests and living spaces. The sensitivity we show during this process will be the most important step to protect our future."