Fire chief bans bonfires in most outdoor areas ahead of Lag B’Omer holiday, in step with past years

The Fire and Rescue Service has ordered a nationwide ban on lighting fires in most open areas ahead of Lag B’Omer next week, a holiday typically celebrated with large bonfires and other outdoor activities.

The fire chief’s order, issued just a week after massive wildfires wreaked havoc on the outskirts of Jerusalem, will take effect tomorrow and last until May 18.

However the regulations are similar to those issued in years past, which have also barred bonfires in open areas save for some designated locations.

The fire service notes that the weather this coming week is expected to be very hot, upping the risk of wildfires in open areas, forests and groves.

There are some exceptions to the ban. People will be permitted to light fires in open areas that local authorities, the Nature and Parks Authority or KKL have designated for the purpose of bonfires.

Fire service district commanders will also be able to grant special permission in writing to those who wish to light bonfires in open areas, but only if the commander finds that an “adequate level of fire safety can be maintained” under the given circumstances.