041206en05003

	news.gov.hk
	From Hong Kong's Information Services Department

December 6, 2004

Conservation

Public urged to prevent hill fires

Due to the vigorous growth of grass, coupled with the dry weather, hill fires are more likely to occur this year, the Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department says, urging the public to help prevent hill fires.

There have been 40 hill fires since the dry season began in September. The recent Pat Sin Leng fire destroyed more than 11,000 trees in 105 hectares while the one at Tai Mo Shan affected 5,000 trees in 10 hectares.

The department plans to plant some 700,000 trees next year at suitable locations in 21 country parks to rehabilitate charred areas.

Battling blazes: Senior Country Parks Officer Cheung Kwok-wai says during the fire season the Fire Control Centre, with 22 teams and 11 lookouts, will oversee fire fighting work in country parks.

Senior Country Parks Officer Cheung Kwok-wai today said during the fire season from September to April, the department's Fire Control Centre, with 22 teams and 11 lookouts, will oversee fire fighting work in country parks.

"There are 37 underground water tanks at strategic locations, each with a capacity of 22,000 litres, to provide water for fire fighting. This year, the department has provided some 500,000 square metres of fire break, which is another measure to prevent hill fire," he said.

Burning joss sticks by grave sweepers, weed-burning by farmers, barbecuing outside designated places, improper disposal of cigarette ends and use of Hung Ming lanterns are among the main causes of hill fires. At the site of Tai Lam Country Park fire, two burnt Hung Ming lanterns were found.

"We will reinforce publicity on fire prevention through our website and leaflets, and step up our patrolling and law enforcement," Mr Cheung said.

There were 14 prosecutions in the past three years on illegal use of fire under the Forests & Country Ordinance, which warrants a $25,000 fine and a year's jail.