Burning Weeds Sparks Fire: Police and Firefighters Issue Warnings
In Siščani, a 74-year-old man ignited a fire while burning weeds. Due to the heatwave, heightened alert and a strict ban on open-air fires are in effect.
In Siščani, a 74-year-old man ignited a fire while burning weeds. Due to the heatwave, heightened alert and a strict ban on open-air fires are in effect.
Police have once again issued an urgent warning to citizens to strictly adhere to the ban on open-air fires. The trigger was the latest fire that occurred on Saturday, August 1, 2026, in the village of Siščani, caused by a careless 74-year-old owner while burning weeds.
According to the Bjelovar-Bilogora Police Department, the incident occurred around 12:30 PM. In his orchard, located behind his house, the owner lit a fire to dispose of dry weeds and other plant waste. The fire quickly spread, engulfing about 100 square meters of dry grass and vegetation. Fortunately, this incident caused no property damage, and there was no risk of the fire spreading further.
Thanks to the swift intervention of the members of the Public Fire Brigade of the City of Čazma, the fire was extinguished. The municipal inspector of Čazma and the fire protection inspector have been notified and will take further measures within their jurisdiction.
The police emphasize that from June 1 to October 31, 2026, a ban on open-air fires is in effect, including the burning of weeds. "We call on citizens to adhere to the prescribed fire protection measures and not to burn weeds, dry grass, branches, or other plant waste in open areas during the ban period. Irresponsible behavior increases the risk of fires breaking out and spreading uncontrollably, thereby endangering people, property, and nature," the police stated.
Meanwhile, the Donji Vidovec Volunteer Fire Department is warning residents of the increased risk of fires starting and spreading due to the forecast heatwaves. Since July 30, 2026, and until weather conditions improve, an order for heightened readiness of all firefighting units in Međimurje County is in effect.
Firefighters appeal to citizens to behave responsibly and follow instructions so that, in the event of a fire, they can act quickly and effectively. They particularly emphasize that every fire must be reported exclusively via the number 193. "Citizens are urged not to only inform neighbors, friends, or members of the volunteer fire department, because without an official report, the fire brigade cannot independently respond to an incident," the Donji Vidovec Volunteer Fire Department points out.
During firefighting operations, units have the authority to restrict vehicle traffic and access to unauthorized persons in the intervention area. The volunteer fire department states that these measures are not directed against citizens but solely serve the safety of everyone present and enable effective firefighting. They also warn people to stay away from the fire site and not to interfere with firefighters or their equipment, as this can endanger their safety and hinder the operation.
