Like the cantons of Vaud, Fribourg, Bern and Valais, Neuchâtel and the Jura announce this Tuesday, July 19 that it is now forbidden to start a fire in the forest, in wooded pastures and nearby, i.e. at less than 200 meters from the borders.
This decision takes effect immediately in both cantons.
In a press release, the Neuchâtel authorities specify that the measure concerns any firing, whatever its nature, whether fireworks, torrées or barbecues in the woods.
Depending on local situations, the municipal authorities can enact specific measures to which the inhabitants must comply, they point out.
salty fine
Persons who do not comply with the ban incur a fine of up to 10,000 francs.
Since today, the degree of danger of forest and brush fires has been qualified as high, i.e. level 4 out of 5, in all the French-speaking cantons, except Geneva.
“The persistent drought of recent weeks and the sunny weather which will continue for the next few days significantly increase the danger of fire”, explain the Neuchâtel authorities.
In the Jura, for the time being, uncertainty remains as to whether or not the traditional August 1 fireworks will be held. The canton is following the evolution of the weather and will communicate on the subject next week.
