From the Consortium of Security and Emergencies of Lanzarote, chaired by the counselor Francisco Javier Aparicio, have published informative material, such as a video and posters with recommendations for the celebration of the bonfires of San Juan during the night of June 23.
This year, bonfires can be made respecting, at all times, the health protection measures for Covid-19, that is, using masks and keeping social distance. Also, people who want to light a bonfire must request the relevant authorization in their respective municipalities to know in advance the location and thus facilitate the work of firefighters in case their intervention is necessary.
In addition to cleaning the area and removing any material that may spread the fire, the Consortium recommends choosing a safe place, if possible without nearby buildings, with little traffic of vehicles and people, and without electrical or telephone lines, trees, houses and parked vehicles nearby. It also advises to move the bonfire 6 meters away from any element that is affected by the fire, for each meter of height of stacked material.
It should be noted that the use of pressurized containers - such as deodorants or insecticides - explosive materials or flammable liquids (such as hydroalcoholic gel), pyrotechnic devices, light papers or fabrics, plastic and metal containers or materials, as well as those materials that produce toxic emissions such as tires, paints, foam rubber or mattresses is prohibited.
Similarly, it is requested to avoid the use of light materials that can come off with the wind and cause a fire, as well as those that cause explosions or pollute the environment. Before leaving the bonfire they must ensure that it is well extinguished and, if necessary, cover the remains with earth. It is also requested to collect the waste from the bonfire and ensure that the place is clean.
The population can make use of the telephones 112 and 080, but exclusively in case of emergency.
Training Days in Risk Prevention
The Security and Emergency Counselor, Francisco J. Aparicio, reports that the registration period is now open to attend the 'Training Days of Risk Prevention in Bonfires of San Juan', which will take place on June 18 and 19 in person at the headquarters of the Consortium in Arrecife.
“In these free workshops, which will be taught by Andrés Pérez Dorta, corporal of the Fire Department, participants will obtain theoretical-practical training on the use and handling of fire extinguishers”, explains Aparicio, who details that “the training is open to anyone, although it is aimed primarily at groups, associations or groups that celebrate this traditional Lanzarote festival.”
The training will take place on June 18 from 17:00 to 19:00 hours, and on June 19 from 10:30 to 12:00 hours. While registration can be done through the Consortium page www.emergenciaslanzarote.com.
Finally, for those interested, from the Security and Emergency Consortium, they will be given a fire extinguisher to avoid or minimize any risk of fire in their respective bonfires.