A picnic in Odesa region turned into a massive fire: the culprit will be prosecuted

Police will be prosecuting a 33-year-old resident of Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi district who destroyed 1.5 hectares of land. The man failed to extinguish the remains of the bonfire on the riverbank in Bilolissia village of Tatarbunar community and threw charcoal into the reeds.

This information was reported by the press service of the National Police in Odesa region.

The fire engulfed and destroyed the reed thickets. Local residents noticed the fire and called firefighters and law enforcement officers. Fortunately, the flames were quickly extinguished, preventing them from spreading to nearby residential buildings.

Police have initiated criminal proceedings and identified the perpetrator.

This offense is punishable by a fine ranging from five thousand four hundred to nine thousand non-taxable minimum incomes, which amounts to 91,800 to 153,000 hryvnias, or by imprisonment for a term of two to five years, or deprivation of liberty for the same term.

The police have forwarded the indictment to the court.

It should be noted that according to fire safety regulations in Ukraine, starting fires, using open flames within a distance of less than 30 meters from buildings and structures, and disposing of unextinguished charcoal are prohibited.

Leaving a source of open fire unattended is also prohibited in all cases.

Police emphasize that in hot weather and strong winds, even a small smoldering ember carelessly left in the grass can cause significant damage to the ecosystem, property, or even lead to loss of life. Be responsible, do not leave unextinguished fires, matches, or cigarette butts behind. If you witness a fire, immediately report it to the emergency line of the State Emergency Service at "101" or the National Police at "102".