Forest protection forces on patrol in Sơn Động Forest in Bắc Giang Province. The province will focus on prevention of forest fires and firefighting. VNA/VNS Photo

BẮC GIANG — Bắc Giang Forest Protection Department will focus on preventing and fighting forest fires in the northern province, providing warnings to localities and promptly mobilising forces for firefighting if needed, its deputy director, Nguyễn Văn Hậu, has said.

Besides, local authorities are directing relevant units and forest owners to review fire prevention and firefighting plans and clear combustible materials in high-risk areas.

They are also telling them to identify specific areas at high risk and allocate resources to deal with fires there, and organise standby forces throughout the dry season.

In case fires break out, it is crucial to mobilise forces to prevent them from spreading, quickly identify their causes and punish violators if any, and devise plans to revive the forests.

During prolonged hot and dry periods, when there are levels IV (dangerous) and V (extremely dangerous) forest fire forecasts, all activities that involve fires near forests, waste disposal or slash-and-burn agriculture are strictly prohibited.

The province Forest Protection Department regularly monitors warning information to detect fire early, and coordinates with the province's meteorological station to provide warnings to authorities, forest owners and residents.

There have been no forest fires in the province so far this year.

In the same period last year there were two fires that damaged 12ha of vegetation. — VNS