Residents living around the Bahati forest have been warned against lighting fires around the forest when grazing their animals.
Bahati forest station emergency response deputy officer, Jonathan Kivilu, said that residents around the forest have been lighting fires around the forest which later spreads to the forest causing a lot of damage.
Speaking at the Bahati chief’s camp on Sunday when he addressed area residents, Kivilu said that it was risky to light fires near the forest especially during this dry season.
He said fires spread very fast in such seasons owing to the strong winds around the area.
“Some of you have been lighting fires around the forest with the aim of getting charcoal and firewood. I want to warn against that because it is unlawful,” he added.
He added, “If we catch anybody doing that, then the law will take its cause. The winds are very strong and the place is so dry and any slight fire can cause a huge damage not only to the forest but also to the surrounding community.”
Kivilu added that his officers were alert and more prepared to deal with any fire that might break out within the forest during this dry season.
“We want residents to help us and report any fire or any persons they might suspect of having the intention of causing fire break outs within the forest so that we can take swift action,” he said.