Have you ever sat outside, enjoying the lovely weekend weather when suddenly the smell of smoke begins to stifle you?

In Tobago, many people have witnessed a cloud of smoke in the sky and inhaled the fumes due to neighbours lighting bush fires as they throw away rubbish.

But did you know that it is an offence to set outdoor fires, including the burning of garbage, during Trinidad and Tobago’s dry season, without a fire permit?

A permit can be obtained from the administrative building at the Scarborough Fire Station on 9 Bacolet Street, for only $10. Failure to secure a permit, however, will result in a fine which now stands at $20,000, up from $1,500 in 2019.

It’s important that fire safety guidelines are followed in order to protect our fellow citizens, as well as the lives of animals and our environment. If you notice a fire, please call the Trinidad and Tobago Fire Service at 990.

When it comes to starting a fire, be responsible!

When obtaining a permit, guidelines must be adhered to. They include the following:

• Burn only during period specified on the permit
• Have water available to put out the fire
• Don’t burn during periods of high wind
• Burn small amounts at a time
• Have help to assist with the fire