Forest Department Reminds Public of start of Annual Fire Season

The Belize Forest Department is reminding the public that the country has officially entered its annual fire season, which runs from February 15 to June 15 and coincides with the dry months.  During this period, authorities say the risk of wildfires increases significantly due to hotter temperatures and reduced rainfall. As a result, farmers planning to carry out agricultural burning are required to first obtain a permit from the Agriculture Department to ensure the activity is conducted safely and within the law.  The department is urging residents to avoid unnecessary burning, warning that even a single spark can quickly escalate into a wildfire capable of threatening lives, homes, and Belize’s forest reserves.  Officials say uncontrolled fires can cause major environmental damage, destroy wildlife habitats, and impact nearby communities, particularly in rural areas where farming activities are common.  The advisory forms part of ongoing efforts by forestry and agricultural authorities to reduce human-caused fires and protect Belize’s natural resources during the peak dry season.