Israel Extends Open Fire Ban Amid High Fire Risk

Israel's Fire and Rescue Services have extended a ban on lighting fires in open areas across the country until September 15, 2026. The decision, issued by Fire and Rescue Services Commander Major General Eyal Caspi, is a preventative measure due to weather conditions that increase the likelihood of fires. The ban applies to all forested areas nationwide, with the exception of the region south of roads 25 and 34.

Fires are only permitted in locations pre-approved by local authorities, the Nature and Parks Authority, or the Jewish National Fund. Any permitted fires must be small, safe, and supervised, adhering to specific guidelines. This includes using designated cooking facilities like grills only in approved areas.

To enforce the ban and ensure public safety, hundreds of firefighters, fire prevention inspectors, and volunteers will be deployed throughout Israel. They will conduct patrols for prevention, monitoring, and rapid response to any emergencies.

Individuals who are permitted to light fires must follow strict safety protocols. These include ensuring the fire is in an isolated area clear of flammable materials, surrounded by stones, and not piled too high. Fires must be supervised by an adult, with children kept at a safe distance. Upon completion, fires must be completely extinguished with water and sand. In case of a fire, the public is instructed to call 102.