Vital warnings from AKUT Foundation against forest fires

Rising temperatures, human negligence, and extreme weather events triggered by the climate crisis are causing thousands of hectares of forest to be destroyed every year. Forest fires pose a serious threat not only to nature but also to human life. Emphasizing the need to be prepared for this vital risk, AKUT VAKFI draws attention to the fact that the right actions taken during a fire can save lives.

10 critical warnings to save lives in forest fires

1. If you see smoke or flames, immediately call the Forest Fire Hotline at 177 or the Emergency Hotline at 112: Clearly and precisely describe the location, and if possible, send your digital location.
2. Assess before intervening: If the flames are very small, try to extinguish them with soil or green branches. Do not intervene if you are not sure you can extinguish the fire.
3. If you cannot extinguish it, evacuate: After reporting the fire, evacuate the area safely. Choose your route based on the type of terrain.
4. If you are on flat terrain, keep the wind at your back: If the wind is carrying the fire toward you, escape in the opposite direction to an open area.
5. If you are in a valley, escape downhill, not uphill: Fire spreads uphill with the wind. Escape by going down into the valley.
6. In rugged terrain, move to the backs of ridges: The backs of hills, where the wind's effect is weak, can provide short-term protection.  
7. Be careful when escaping from streams and canyons: Fires can spread quickly in these areas. Avoid parallel escape routes; if there are caves, take shelter in them.  
8. Listen to the authorities in tourist areas: If you are near the sea and the wind is blowing from land to sea, swimming may be your last resort.
9. If you cannot escape, create shelter for yourself: Dig a hole and cover yourself with damp soil. Make sure to cover your face.
10. If you are going on a nature trip, be prepared: A fire blanket, heat-resistant tarp, and mask could be vital.