The Nedre Romerike Fire and Rescue Service (NRBR) has imposed a total ban on any form of fire and open flame in the municipalities of Rælingen, Lørenskog, Lillestrøm, Gjerdrum, Aurskog-Høland, and Nittedal.
This ban is due to the high risk of forest fires and applies to all outdoor areas, including parks, lake shores, cultivated land, pastures, meadows, and forests. The ban is in addition to the general campfire ban that comes into effect every year in all of Norway from 15 April to 15 September.
The temporary regulation prohibits all kinds of use of open fire, such as campfires, using barbecues, camping stoves, campfire pans, and all other cooking appliances fueled by gas, wood, coal, briquettes, grass, branches, etc.
Landowners who have established designated places for campfires or barbecues, either private or public, must close these. This year, no Midsummer bonfires are allowed in Nedre Romerike. All approved applications for Midsummer bonfires have therefore been withdrawn by NRBR.
According a news release, the temporary regulation will last until the risk of forest fires is significantly reduced and NRBR makes this known on their website, social media, and press releases.
When the ban is lifted, the general ban on campfires will still apply, which – as a general rule – prohibits making fires in or near forests and other open fields. This includes the use of disposable grills, campfire pans, and other grilling devices.
It is important to remember that wherever and whenever you are, you are always responsible when lighting a fire. Anyone who intentionally or negligently violates the regulations may be punished by a fine or imprisonment, according to the Fire and Explosion Protection Act.
NRBR specifies that it is still allowed to barbecue in your own garden, schoolyards, car parks, and sports fields, as long as these are not located close to forest and fields. But as always: Everyone must exercise caution when carrying out activities that could lead to a fire. You are always responsible for your own actions.
NRBR also asks businesses that are engaged in forestry, telecommunications, maintenance of roads and railway lines, etc., to assess the risk and take measures to reduce the risk of fire. This is a crucial step in preventing forest fires and ensuring the safety of the community.
A total ban on any form of fire and open flame has been imposed in Nedre Romerike to prevent potential forest fires. This measure, while possibly causing some inconvenience, has been taken with the intent of ensuring community safety and preserving the environment. Adherence to these regulations and the implementation of precautions to prevent fires are being urged by the authorities.