The Foreign Office has updated its travel advice for France, warning British tourists of a 'high risk' of wildfires across the country during the summer months. The update follows a week of intense wildfires that have swept through parts of Europe, including Spain, France, Portugal, and Greece, forcing thousands of people to evacuate.
Thousands Evacuated in Southern France
In southern France, more than 10,000 people were evacuated from small towns and villages in the French Pyrenees, near the Spanish border, according to the BBC. The wildfires prompted authorities to advise spectators planning to watch the third stage of the Tour de France to stay away on Monday to allow emergency vehicles easier access to the region.
Updated Foreign Office Guidance
On Tuesday, July 7, the Foreign Office updated its France travel guidance to highlight the 'high risk' of wildfires from April to October. The updated advice states: 'There is a high risk of wildfires during the summer season from April to October. For advice, visit the wildfires section on the Safety and security page,' as reported by the Mirror. The existing advice on wildfires, which is always included in the guidance, remains unchanged. The latest update simply reminds Britons of its existence and directs them to the relevant section.
Existing Wildfire Advice for France
The Foreign Office's standing advice on wildfires in France reads: 'Wildfires can start anywhere in France during the summer months, particularly along the Mediterranean coast and in Corsica. The French weather service has launched a fire alert map to help travellers stay up to date. Fires have become more frequent because of drought and high temperatures. French authorities may evacuate areas and close roads for safety reasons. Causing a wildfire is illegal in France, even if it is started by accident. You could get a fine or a prison sentence.'
What to Do in a High-Risk Area
The advice also includes recommendations for those staying in or near high-risk areas, directing them to the French government's English-language guidance on what to do if a wildfire breaks out, how to prevent outbreaks, and how to protect homes, including mandatory bush clearance. In the event of a wildfire, the Foreign Office advises calling emergency services on 18 (fire) or 112 (emergency services).
