Measures in place to curb forest fires as fire season is declared

Adequate measures have been put in place to control forest fires in Laikipia County to ensure the vital resource is protected.
County Ecosystem Conservator Stephen Karega said that the vegetation has rapidly dried up causing a buildup of flammable materials that increased the risk of forest fires.
In a notice, Karega warned farmers living adjacent to forest reserves and private ranches to stop preparing farms through burning of debris that results to spot fires.
“Due to the prevailing weather conditions vegetation is rapidly drying up and fire danger rating is very high. We are urging farmers living adjacent to forest reserves and private ranches to cease using fire in preparing their lands as they pose danger of fire outbreak in forests,” read the notice.
Other measures taken to curb the menace includes cancelling of annual leaves and recalling foresters on leave to resume duties immediately, foresters to remain in their stations including weekends and foresters ensure staff remain in their respective stations and outposts.
Ecosystem Conservator said that all foresters must prepare duty rosters for standby gangs and any activity that require use of fire within the vicinity or inside forest banned, and in case an intention to use fire must have permission within a 24 hour notice.
“No employee of the Kenya Forest Service will proceed on annual leave and all those on leave must resume duties immediately,” he said.
Karega called on the public to report any fire outbreaks and seek help from the nearest administrative office, police and be ready to assist when need arises.
He appealed to the deputy commissioners and sub-county foresters to inform chiefs about the implementation of the measures and pass the message to the public in their barazas to create awareness of the season.
By Njoroge Samuel /Njoroge David