Residents of Krasnoyarsk face hefty fines for lighting fires

Risks of wildfires in the Krasnoyarsk Krai region are soaring with the arrival of summer. The sunny weather makes careless handling of fires extremely hazardous, elevating the risk of wildfires by a significant margin.

"Be exceptionally cautious and attentive when dealing with fire during the upcoming holiday week!" urges the emergency management agency in the region.

Many residents start burning waste and last year's grass - that's a stern no-no. Strong spring winds quickly fan the flames, making it particularly dangerous near forested areas and rural properties. An unattended outdoor fire can quickly spin out of control.

Since the onset of the fire season, there have been 134 instances of wildfires on open lands, covering an area of 590 square kilometers. Most of these fires raged in Krasnoyarsk, Kansk, Sayanogorsk, and Emelianovsky districts.

On weekends, a special anti-fire regime will be imposed on most territories across the region, except for the north. Starting May 1, the same regime will be announced, and from May 5, it will be effective all over the region.

"Residents must approach the use of open fire responsibly, clean any flammable debris around their homes, cooperate with rural administrations, active citizens, and neighbors – these actions will significantly reduce the risk of fires. Remember, your safety is mostly in your hands: do not build junk piles of waste on your rural properties, do not ignite bonfires, do not burn dry grass, especially on windy days, always make sure there is a water container and a fire extinguisher on your rural properties. Maintain order on your properties. Do not throw cigarette butts or glowing matches on the ground," advises Sergei Tagirov, head of the emergency management agency.

All territories will be under constant surveillance, including drones.

Violators will face severe penalties:

For administrative offenses, the fines range from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles for citizens, from 20,000 to 30,000 rubles for government officials, from 40,000 to 60,000 rubles for individual entrepreneurs without a legal entity, and from 300,000 to 400,000 rubles for legal entities.
Under criminal charges, penalties for similar actions during a fire emergency situation in a special anti-fire regime can reach: from 10,000 to 20,000 rubles for citizens, from 30,000 to 60,000 rubles for government officials, from 60,000 to 80,000 rubles for individual entrepreneurs, and from 400,000 to 800,000 rubles for legal entities.

In case of a fire, report it at 112, and in case of a forest fire, call 8-800-100-94-00.

Image Source: MVD of the Krasnoyarsk Krai

Pay heed to fire safety guidelines, but beware: these consequences aren't just a hollow threat! Take action now to keep your property and loved ones safe.

Stay updated with the latest news and weather forecasting as the fire season escalates in the Krasnoyarsk Krai region.
Environmental-science enthusiasts might find it fascinating that wildfires are a significant issue due to climate-change and weather patterns.
General-news outlets have reported hundreds of wildfires on open lands, covering numerous square kilometers over the past season.
Strict anti-fire regimes have been announced and will be effective across most regions, except for the north, starting May 1.
The emergency management agency advises residents to be responsible with any open fires, clean debris, collaborate with local authorities, and avoid activities like burning waste, dry grass, and ignoring proper disposal methods.
Violators of the anti-fire rules will face severe penalties, not just in fines but also under criminal charges during a fire emergency situation.
In the event of a fire, it is crucial to report immediately to emergency numbers 112 or 8-800-100-94-00 for forest fires.