Nicosia: In light of the mass exodus of members of the public to the countryside and forests for the August 15 holiday, the competent authorities are sounding the alarm over the risk of forest fires caused by human activity, calling on the public to exercise increased vigilance and responsibility. According to Cyprus News Agency, the Department of Forests said that it was ready to welcome members of the public who will visit the country's forests during the holiday period, ensuring that they can enjoy nature safely. At the same time, the Department is making a strong appeal for respect for the natural environment, stressing that fires caused by human activity have long posed a serious threat. Members of the public are urged to light charcoal for barbecuing only in specially designated and safe areas, to avoid lighting wood for fire, and to ensure that every fire has been completely extinguished after cooking has finished. Owners of holiday homes who hire third parties to clear their yards are also required to ensure that they do not burn grass or branches. The Department of Forests reminds the public that, from 1 June to 30 September, the use, without written permission from its director, of tools or machinery that generate heat, flames or sparks is prohibited within state forests or within a two-kilometre radius of them. The disposal of lit cigarette butts in forest and rural areas is strictly prohibited, while lighting fires is permitted only in specially designated picnic areas. Littering in forests is prohibited. Anyone who notices smoke or a fire should immediately contact 1407 (Department of Forests) or 112 (Fire Service). 'Protecting our forests is everyone's responsibility', the press release concluded.