Tenerife Imposes Strict Bonfire Restrictions Amid High Wildfire Risk for St. John’s Eve
Tenerife has implemented strict bonfire restrictions and deployed a 152-person security force to mitigate high forest fire risks during this year's St. John’s Eve celebrations.
Tenerife is bracing for a strictly monitored St. John’s Eve this year. Due to a high forest fire risk alert issued by the Canary Islands government, the Island Council has implemented severe restrictions on the traditional bonfires. With high temperatures expected, authorities have banned the use of fire in all forest and sensitive areas, unless a specific safety plan has been approved.
A security team of 152 people will be on duty to coordinate with local municipalities and respond quickly to any emergencies. This force includes 65 firefighters from the Tenerife Consortium, 50 volunteer firefighters, 37 members of the Brifor forest brigades, and additional support from Civil Protection and volunteer groups.
For celebrations held outside of high-risk zones—which can be checked on the "Tenerife ON" website—organizers must notify their local town hall in writing. This allows officials to inspect the site for safety and record the contact details of a responsible adult.
Blanca Pérez, head of the Department of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, is urging the public to be cautious. The Council has strictly prohibited burning non-vegetal waste, as materials like plastic or rubber increase toxic smoke and make fires much harder to control.
Those who receive municipal permission to host a bonfire must follow strict safety guidelines:
- Maintain a three-meter perimeter clear of all vegetation.
- Keep the fire away from power lines, buildings, and vehicles.
- Have water hoses ready for immediate use.
- Do not use accelerants like gasoline.
Once the celebration ends, the person in charge must ensure the fire is completely extinguished. Any emergencies should be reported immediately by calling 112.