The forests department: has called, in a statement issued on Tuesday, on hunters to exercise particular caution during their outings in rural and forested areas, in view of the start of the hunting season (partridge hunting) on Sunday 23 August 2026.
According to Cyprus News Agency, hunters are urged to avoid any action or activity that could cause a fire. Particular caution is required of hunters who smoke, as they must not discard cigarette ends in the areas where they are hunting but, after extinguishing them, must place them in a safe place and not leave them in the environment.
It is noted that lighting fires in forest and agricultural areas is strictly prohibited, as this constitutes an offence. Lighting fires is permitted only in the specially designated areas of the Forests Department's picnic sites and exclusively for the purpose of preparing food.
It is also emphasised that discarding empty cartridges in the environment constitutes a serious form of pollution and is prohibited under the 'Law on the Protection and Management of Wild Birds and Game'. Consequently, hunters are urged to collect and dispose of empty cartridges, helping to protect the natural environment.
Anyone who notices smoke or a fire in or near the woods is urged to telephone 1407 (Forests Department) or 112 (Fire Service) immediately, the statement concludes.