BBQ licences halted under Alderney’s “tinderbox conditions”

Monday 15 August 2022

All BBQ licences are being declined by the States of Alderney and the public are being asked to undertake a voluntary bonfire ban, while the current heatwave continues.

“We’re asking residents and visitors to co-operate because with everywhere so dry just one person acting irresponsibly can start a fire that could quickly spread and cause serious damage to the Island and wildlife, as well as threaten our safety,” said Chief Fire Officer, Mark Gaudion.

“A careless bonfire or barbecue, even a discarded cigarette, is all it takes and once such dry vegetation is alight it could easily turn into a wildfire. 

“As an example, the recent gorse fire at Fort Tourgis was not easy to extinguish and reignited even after our attendance and regular damping down. 

“Even a fire started on private property can smoulder underground after it has been extinguished, then reignite somewhere nearby.”