Like many parts of the world, Turkey is unfortunately prone to forest fires, which can easily ignite when exposed to strong winds, which occur frequently during the summer months. Last year there were wildfires on the Aegean coast, such as Marmaris, Koisegiz, Manavgat, and especially at destinations in and around Bodrum. This summer, in the same way, and just like last week, wildfires broke out again, this time in the area of Mugla’s favorite boarding school.
Let’s hope it isn’t, but if this is a sign of what’s to come this summer, now is the time to keep an eye out for foreigners and Turks, so we can do our best to keep the majesty. The nature here. And so, I have compiled a list of key tips for preventing wildfires in Turkey.
Call 112
First, simply call 112 in the event of a potential fire, or any other emergency. The number 112, which is similar to calling 911 in the United States, is now a phone number for any emergency. Including wildfires. There should be an alternative to the English language, but if you do not simply say “yangın var”, there is a fire in Turkey. They also want to provide the exact address or description of the place as much as possible.
Stay on site, clear path
In such a case, it is recommended that the informant remain in place to determine the exact location of the fire or fire. In addition, it is important to clear access for firefighters. If you can make sure cars are off the road or try to keep other vehicles out of the area, you are really doing your part by supporting firefighting efforts. The Turks love to help and especially when there is a fire everyone goes out on the street and tries as much as possible but the most important thing we can do is prepare the place by making sure firefighters arrive. They have enough space to move.
Only trained firefighters and volunteers should put out the fire
You see, last year many areas in Turkey, especially the southern coast of the country, were affected by forest fires. In the wake of the devastating wildfires that engulfed the neighboring villages and settlements, volunteers came in large numbers to help put out the fire. However, the turmoil on the road with a large number of volunteers, coupled with efforts to relocate their families and animals, is sometimes strongly discouraged and only trained volunteers and official firefighters are advised to carry out wildfires.
Assisting local councils, basic efforts
But of course, we all want to help, as was the case with last year’s firefight. However, the best way for an ordinary person to do this is to contact the local authorities and ask them directly what they want. Over the past year, several social media groups and organizations have highlighted the importance of ice, cold water, drinks and healthy foods. So instead of going to the venue and adding more cars to the commotion, my friends and I delivered the requested item to the local council.
Be vigilant because fires are quiet
Last year, everything I called home caught fire, so I realized that I had to leave the house immediately. One night while I was working at my desk, a fire broke out in a nearby field, and when I saw it, it was approaching my house. But I accidentally opened the curtain and realized that a fire was burning within meters of me. Although the moment I opened the curtain, I saw a big flash of light and I opened the door to get a better view and I made a big mistake and I couldn’t see anything, I couldn’t breathe all the smoke that came in suddenly. at home. In a black smoke cloud, I tried to gather my pets and try to think of what was most important in the house, quickly covering up what I thought was forever. Fortunately and miraculously, firefighters arrived and extinguished the fire in a matter of minutes.
Be prepared
What I learned from my own experience with wildfires is worth preparing. Now I have my cat transport box, extra pen and water bag for my dog, snacks and supplies, a smoky towel, always ready and at the same time ready for any natural disaster. Advertisement. The main thing I tried to release during the fire was the smoke was so thick that I could not see or breathe. If I need a quick and unobtrusive exit, right now a pair of swimming glasses and a flashlight are waiting for me at my front door.
Irrigation of the area
As I was carrying my bag and my pets to get out of the clouds quickly, my neighbors arrived and opened the sprinkling system and lowered the garden to the clouds, but they started watering. Smoking. A neighbor even cheats on the pool pump and starts pouring water into the fire.
The biggest causes of accidents …
Winds to the north are said to dry up moisture. So be careful when the wind blows from the south and be extra careful. Roads and forest junctions are among the most dangerous areas along the Turkish coast. Garbage cans, such as glass bottles and plastic bottles, can have the slightest effect of sudden ignition.
In the meantime, what can we do …
The best way to prevent forest fires is to clean up forest waste and unnatural waste. When we collect ourselves and others, if we can collect garbage, especially glass and plastic bottles, we not only prevent forest fires, but we also clean up the area. To begin with, you can also do good exercise while doing this!
