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The popular British holiday destination where a wildfire warning has been issued
The popular British holiday destination where a wildfire warning has been issued
Tourists have been advised to heighten their vigilance, with the alert in place until further notice
Playa de las Americas, situated on the south coast of Tenerife
(Image: Getty Images )
A wildfire warning has been issued at a holiday destination popular with British tourists. Spanish authorities have issued a pre-alert for the Canary Islands.
Issued by the General Directorate of Emergencies, the warning extends to Tenerife, Grand Canaria, La Palma, La Gomera and EI Heirro. It followers the island's wet season, with dry and hot winds starting to blow in from the Sahara Desert. Authorities have urged residents and tourists to heighten their vigilance, with the alert in place until further notice.
It is not uncommon for wildfires to happen during the summer months in both Spain and Portugal. Eight years ago, there were hundreds of large fires in the two countries.
It saw 45 people killed in Portugal and four in Spain.
And two years ago, there was an evacuation of 12,000 people from Tenerife as a wildfire became 'out of control'.
The UK Government has offered the advice to travellers.
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Its website reads: "Wildfires happen often in Spain, including on the islands, during the summer months.
"Be aware of your environment when visiting or driving through woodland areas.
"For information on wildfire risk visit the Spanish Meteorological Office (AEMET).
"Causing a wildfire is a criminal offence in Spain, even if unintentional.
"Make sure cigarette ends are properly extinguished, do not light barbecues and do not leave empty bottles behind.
"You can be heavily fined for not following the rules against lighting outdoor barbecues in forest areas.
"Make sure you know the rules if considering a barbeque.
For information on what to do in the event of a wildfire, visit Civil Protection (website in Spanish).
It adds: "Immediately report any fire you see to the emergency services on 112. In the case of wildfires, the situation can change quickly, so you should stay up to date with official advice."
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