The restrictions came into force at 08.00 on Thursday, 30 July, and will apply across different parts of the island depending on the level of risk. Level 1 restrictions are in place on the northern slopes of Tenerife and in Anaga Norte, while Level 2 restrictions apply to the southern slopes of the island and Anaga Sur.
The measures affect the use of fire, activities involving machinery that may generate sparks, access to forest tracks and certain recreational activities in natural areas. In the areas under Level 2 restrictions, the rules are even stricter and include a ban on access to recreational areas, camping sites and camps, as well as the recreational use of motor vehicles on forest tracks.
The tightening of restrictions coincides with a period of high temperatures, dry air and adverse weather conditions in Tenerife. The aim is to reduce the risk of any activity that could cause a fire or make it more difficult for emergency services to intervene.
Which areas of Tenerife are under Level 1 and Level 2
According to the information released by the Cabildo’s Department of the Environment and Sustainability, Level 1 applies to the northern slopes of Tenerife and Anaga Norte. The southern slopes of the island and Anaga Sur are subject to Level 2 measures.
These include all the prohibitions established under Level 1, together with additional restrictions affecting access, leisure activities and movement in mountain areas. The measures will remain in force for as long as the risk situation that led to their activation persists.
What is prohibited in Level 1 areas
In areas under Level 1 restrictions, the recreational use of fire outdoors is prohibited. This includes barbecues, bonfires and gas cookers, as well as the burning of agricultural or forestry plant debris. Smoking is also banned in recreational areas, camping sites, camps, tracks, footpaths, roads, viewpoints and other public facilities.
The use of machinery that may produce sparks or incandescent elements is also prohibited. This includes equipment such as brush cutters and welding tools, among others. The restrictions also ban firework displays and the use of any type of pyrotechnic material in the affected areas.
Additional prohibitions in Level 2 areas
On the southern slopes of Tenerife and in Anaga Sur, all Level 1 measures apply, along with additional, more stringent restrictions. Under Level 2, the recreational use of motor vehicles on the network of forest tracks is prohibited. Hunting with shotguns is also banned across the entire island.
Access to recreational areas, camping sites and camps within the scope of the measures is closed. Sporting events and pilgrimages may not be held on tracks, forest paths or cross-country routes. Forestry operations have also been suspended while the restrictions remain in force. Among the measures announced by the Tenerife Island Council is also the ban on access to the Chimaque Viewpoint, located in the Anaga area.
Recommendations due to the risk of fire
The Island Council is urging the public to exercise extreme caution and avoid any behaviour that could start a fire, even outside the areas subject to the strictest restrictions. The Cabildo also reminds residents and visitors that, in the event of a fire, access routes may be closed to prevent traffic congestion and to allow emergency crews to reach the affected area quickly.
The public is advised to follow the instructions of the emergency services at all times and to remain attentive to official updates while the heatwave and fire-risk situation continues. Anyone who sees a column of smoke or any sign of a possible fire should immediately contact the 112 Emergency and Security Coordination Centre, providing the location as accurately as possible.
